The effects of chewing gum on your teeth mainly depend on the type of gum, as well as the individual's oral health. Here are some of the possible impacts:
Positive effects: Increased saliva flow: Chewing gum stimulates the salivary glands to produce more saliva. Saliva is essential for dental health as it helps neutralize the acidic environment inside the mouth, washes away food debris, and provides essential minerals to the teeth to help repair early cavities damage.
Reduces plaque and tartar formation: An increase in saliva can limit the attachment of bacteria and reduce tartar and tartar formation.
Prevent bad breath: Chewing gum can help mask bad breath, even if it's a temporary fix.
Prevent ear congestion: Chewing gum helps regulate the pressure in the ear due to changes in air pressure during flight.
Negative effects: Tooth damage: If chewing gum for a long time, especially with high force or frequency, it may cause problems with the jaw joint (TMJ) or wear and tear on the teeth.
Sugary gum can cause tooth decay: Sugary gum can increase food for oral bacteria**, which can increase acid production, which can eventually lead to tooth enamel destruction and tooth decay.
To ensure the positive effect of chewing gum on teeth, it is advisable to choose sugar-free gum that contains xylitol. Xylitol is a sweetener that is thought to reduce acid production from bacteria in the mouth, thereby reducing the risk of tooth decay. Even so, chewing gum properly is still one of the aids to maintain oral health. In conclusion, the most important thing is to maintain good oral hygiene, including regular brushing, flossing, and regular check-ups at the lab coat.