Introduction
Chewing gum is a popular pastime, and the effects of gum chewing on oral health have long been questioned. In this article, we take a 360° view of chewing gum and more deeply examine how it affects oral health, looking at both the potential benefits and risks. Finally, we consider what the experts say about gum chewing and its impact on oral hygiene.
A Closer Look at Chewing Gum and Its Impact on Oral Health
Chewing gum is a surprisingly old activity, with the earliest recorded use of the substance by humans dating back to 5000 BC. This practice has a long history of accompanying social settings and often involves the ingestion of a substance consisting of sweetener, preservatives, flavoring, and a gum base. The effect of this activity on oral health has been varied and debate on the advantages and disadvantages of this gum chewing has ensued for centuries.
Examining the Benefits of Chewing Gum: A 360° View
Chewing gum has some potential benefits for oral health, including:
- Increasing salivary flow and neutralizing acidity in the mouth
- Alleviating dental caries, cavities and plaque
- Leaving behind active ingredients that have an antibacterial effect
A growing body of research supports the notion that gum chewing can cause these positive outcomes. Clinical trials show that chewing gum can increase saliva, which helps reduce the acidity levels in the mouth, thereby deterring the growth of bacteria. Gum chewing also helps clean the teeth, promote enamel remineralization, and reduce the risk of developing cavities and plaque. Additionally, specific types of gums contain active ingredients, such as xylitol, which can reduce the growth of bacteria.
Potential Risks of Chewing Gum: An In-depth Look
Chewing gum can be beneficial for oral health, but it does have some potential risks. For example, chewing gum can damage existing dental work, such as crowns and bridges, if the gum is stuck in the adhesive. Additionally, gum chewing can cause tooth decay if a person chews sugary gum or chews gum with artificial sweeteners too often. Chewing gum can also affect the jaw muscles and cause jaw pain or temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ).
Is Chewing Gum Beneficial for Oral Hygiene Solutions?
Given the benefits and risks associated with chewing gum, it is important to consider that gum chewing is not a replacement for daily oral hygiene but can be used in addition to it. If someone chooses to chew gum, it is best to choose sugar-free gum that contains the active ingredients xylitol and sorbitol, as these ingredients can reduce bacteria growth. It is also important to note that gum chewing should not be done for more than 20 minutes at a time.
What the Experts Say about Chewing Gum and Oral Health
Experts agree that gum chewing can be beneficial for oral health, but it is important to understand the potential risks. Dentists recommend chewing sugar-free gum and limiting gum chewing to 20 minutes at a time. Additionally, it is important to note that gum chewing does not replace the need for good oral hygiene and should be used in addition to brushing and flossing.
Conclusion
Chewing gum is a widely practiced activity, and its effects on oral health have long been debated. While there are potential benefits to gum chewing, there are also risks. Ultimately, experts agree that chewing sugar-free gum with active ingredients can have positive effects on oral health, but it should be used in addition to a regular oral hygiene routine.