Like most big questions in life, the answer to the debate about whether or not chewing gum is good or bad for your teeth can go both ways depending on a few different circumstances.

For the most part, chewing gum has demonstrated that it can – and does – protect your teeth in certain ways.

For one thing, sugarless chewing gum can help prevent tooth decay. Sugar-free gum (especially the brands sweetened with xylitol) can actually be a solid preventive decision in situations when toothbrushing and flossing aren’t practical!

This holds true for sugarless gum though and not typical sugar-filled gum. You should always consume regular gum in moderation given the amount of sugar in it.

Another benefit of sugarless chewing gum? The minerals generated by the extra saliva when you chew gum help to strengthen the enamel of your teeth, which also reduces your risk of getting cavities.

A lot of people don’t realize how beneficial the physical act of chewing is for your mouth and teeth.

Because chewing causes your mouth to increase in its saliva production, chewing gum after you eat helps to neutralize and rinse the acids that form in your mouth when food is broken down during a meal.

While chewing gum – in moderation – is helpful in protecting your teeth and promoting oral health, if you have any kind of regular jaw pain, or Temporomandibular Disorder symptoms (TMD/TMJ), it’s not recommended that you chew gum regularly, if at all. You should also talk to your dentist about what options are available to you.

It goes without saying, but we can’t stress enough how chewing gum should never replace your regular dental hygiene practices, like brushing your teeth twice a day, as well as flossing and rinsing once a day.

Contact NY Dental Group with any other questions you might have about gum’s affect on your oral health!