Is Chewing Gum Good for Your Mouth? | Blog By Dr. Bhavna Patel

Benefits of Chewing Gum:

1. Saliva Stimulation: Chewing gum stimulates saliva production, which is essential for maintaining a healthy mouth. Saliva helps neutralize acids produced by bacteria, remineralize tooth enamel, and wash away food particles and debris. Increased saliva flow can also help prevent dry mouth, which can lead to dental issues.
2. Preventing Tooth Decay: Some sugar-free gums contain sweeteners like xylitol, sorbitol, or mannitol, which do not contribute to tooth decay. Xylitol, in particular, has been shown to inhibit the growth of cavity-causing bacteria and reduce the risk of cavities.
3. Freshens Breath: Chewing gum with a pleasant flavor can temporarily mask bad breath and provide a fresh feeling in the mouth. However, it’s essential to address the underlying causes of bad breath rather than relying solely on gum for freshening breath.
4. Oral Care on the Go: Chewing gum can be a convenient option for oral care when you are unable to brush your teeth after a meal. It can help dislodge food particles and stimulate saliva flow until you can perform proper oral hygiene.

Risks of Chewing Gum:

1. Sugar Content: Chewing gum that contains sugar can promote tooth decay. Sugar provides a food source for bacteria in the mouth, leading to the production of acid that can erode tooth enamel. It’s crucial to choose sugar-free gum to minimize this risk.
2. TMJ and Jaw Discomfort: Excessive chewing or chewing gum with excessive force can strain the jaw joints (TMJ) and lead to jaw discomfort or temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD) in some individuals. If you experience jaw pain or discomfort while chewing gum, it’s best to avoid it or limit its use.
3. Digestive Issues: Swallowing excessive amounts of gum, especially sugarless gum containing sugar substitutes like sorbitol or mannitol, can cause digestive issues such as gas, bloating, or diarrhea. Always dispose of gum properly and avoid swallowing it.
4. Jaw Muscle Hypertrophy: Prolonged and excessive gum chewing can lead to the hypertrophy (enlargement) of the jaw muscles, causing the lower face to appear wider. This is more likely to occur with habitual, intense gum chewing over extended periods.
5. Jaw Misalignment: In some cases, excessive gum chewing can contribute to misalignment of the teeth or exacerbate existing bite issues. If you have concerns about your bite or jaw alignment, consult with your dentist or orthodontist.

Tips for Safe Gum Chewing:

• Choose sugar-free gum with xylitol or other non-cavity-causing sweeteners.
• Avoid chewing gum excessively or for extended periods.
• Discontinue gum chewing if you experience jaw pain or discomfort.
• Dispose of gum properly after use, and never swallow it.
• Use gum as a temporary oral care solution when brushing is not immediately possible.

In conclusion, chewing gum can have both positive and negative effects on your oral health. Sugar-free gum with xylitol can be a helpful addition to your oral care routine, promoting saliva flow and reducing the risk of cavities. However, excessive gum chewing, especially with sugary gum, can lead to dental issues and jaw discomfort. As with any oral care practice, moderation is key. If you have concerns about the impact of chewing gum on your oral health, consult with your dentist for personalized guidance and recommendations.