Sugar-Free Gum Benefits

Chewing gum has been around for millennia, when ancient civilizations first learned to cultivate different tree resins and chew it for its antiseptic properties. Nowadays, lots of chewing gum is made from synthetic products and loaded with cavity-causing sugars. However, thanks to safe artificial sweeteners, there are many ADA-approved brands of sugar-free chewing gum on the market today that come without the disadvantages of other sugary gums. Read on to learn about the benefits of sugar-free gum.

Prevents cavities

By increasing saliva production, chewing sugar-free gum helps wash away food particles if chewed within 20 minutes of eating, helping to prevent cavities. This increased saliva production has other benefits as well, including less plaque, decreased dry mouth, and the possible reduction of acid reflux.

Strengthens enamel

Our mouths are regularly producing acids to start breaking down foods before they reach our digestive systems. Another benefit of sugar-free gum is that it helps reduce acid in your mouth, which thereby curbs enamel erosion. Stronger tooth enamel means reduced cavity growth, as well as less tooth sensitivity and whiter teeth.

Freshens breath

There is some science behind the sweeteners used in sugar-free gum! Sucrose, or sugar, is introduced to bacteria in the mouth, which then feed off those sugars and begin to multiply and produce decay-causing acids, which cause bad breath. Xylitol, a common artificial sweetener used as a sugar replacement in sugar-free gums, is easily absorbed by bacteria but prevents it from reproducing. Since the bacteria can’t multiply and stick to the teeth, they eventually die off, resulting in fresher breath and cleaner teeth.

There are far more benefits to sugar-free gum than regular gum. Not only will you have healthier teeth, but a brighter smile and fresh breath. To help keep your mouth looking and feeling its best, it’s best to visit your dentist on a regular basis. From preventative services to periodontal surgery, the Wytheville Dental Group is here for all your dental health needs! Contact us today to schedule an appointment!