Is gum good for you at all?!
Question:
Is gum good for you at all?
Is gum good for you at all?
Answers:
Chewing gum (sugarless) after meals has the potential to cut down on plaque and if you have less plaque it isn't there to turn into tartar (calculus). Less plaque, tartar and food debris is good for your teeth and gums! The reasons for this are due to it increasing salivary flow which has a good rinsing action which reduces the acids formed in your mouth when food is being broken down. Also, the mechanical action of the gum rubbing against the teeth will remove some of the plaque as it is extremely soft. Xylitol gum which has been used in Europe for years should be used if possible. I did a research paper on xylitol and studies show its efficacy. Most US gums have concentrations of xylitol that are too low, but often advertise it on the package. See this site http://www.xlear.com/spry/ for some information. Many people also chew gum to help them concentrate or quit a habit like smoking.
Happy chewing! Hope that helps
JAMRDH - a dental hygienist