Gray Dental Group

Dentist Edmond: How You Can Chew Gum And Prevent Cavities

Some people like to chew gum as a way to prevent snacking on other things they shouldn’t be eating, to help kick their smoking habit, or perhaps it’s just a habit to chew gum. No matter what your reason for wanting to chew gum, you probably don’t want to cause your teeth to decay, right? Our dentist in Edmond says that it’s possible to enjoy chewing gum, as long as you do it responsibly.

If you only like chewing gum for the sugar rush, you’re in trouble! If you care more about your dental hygiene, then consider that many brands of gum are full of sugar. This is not good for your teeth as the sugar is utilized by plaque bacteria in one’s mouth to produce acids which does damage to the protective layer on your teeth, or enamel. When the enamel is no longer intact it leads to cavities and other potential dental problems. Our dentist in Edmond has seen this happen!

So what can you do? Opt for sugarless gum, instead.

Some clinical studies have shown that chewing sugarless gum for 20 minutes after eating a meal can help prevent tooth decay, or cavities. Sugarless gum also helps to increase saliva in the mouth to wash away food and debris.

Here’s why having a healthy amount of saliva matters:

  • It can neutralize the acids produced by bacteria in your mouth.
  • It can help fight diseases in the mouth.
  • Increased saliva provides more calcium and phosphates (to strengthen enamel on teeth).

Our dentist in Edmond agrees with the promise that the American Dental Association (ADA) forth in that their products follow safety guidelines. So, when you are looking for a sugarless gum brand in the grocery store, seek out the ADA seal on the label as their approved gums will contain less harmful sweeteners instead of sugar such as; aspartame, xylitol, sorbitol, and mannitol.

With that being said, our dentist in Edmond also suggests maintaining a daily brushing, flossing, and rinsing routine to ensure that your teeth remain as clean and healthy as possible. It’s best to use a fluoride toothpaste and brush at least twice per day for best results. Additionally, flossing between your teeth at least once per day is recommended.

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