Is Chewing Gum Healthy?

Chewing gum has some definite benefits, particularly for those with chronic conditions who have salvia issues. According to the American Dental Association (ADA) Clinical studies have shown that chewing sugarless gum for 20 minutes following meals can help prevent tooth decay. ... Chewing sugarless gum has been shown to increase the flow of saliva, thereby reducing plaque acid, strengthening the teeth and reducing tooth decay. Another benefit is that it acts as a tooth whitener.

Chewing gum 30 minutes after a meal has been found to help relieve heartburn and even protect against damage caused by GERD. Other benefits include: improves memory (teachers have students take tests while chewing gum); reduces symptoms of stress ;and weight management. However, like anything done to excess, over doing gum chewing can lead to headaches, trigger TMJ, or damage dental work.

Not all gums are equal, and the ADA recommends sugar free. That noted, some people are allergic to artificial sweeteners such as aspartame and saccharine, which in high doses, can cause metabolic damage.

There is now a gum made with xylitol that not only acts as an antimicrobial to stop bacteria growth but also satisfies sugar cravings. You can purchase gums made 100% from xylitol at health food stores. Note that Xylitol is toxic to dogs, even a small amount can cause liver failure so be sure to keep gum away from your pet.

While chewing gum is not a replacement for brushing and flossing, it can be a very helpful adjunct to good dental health

The ADA has given their “seal of approval” to the following:

• Dentyne Ice Sugarless Gum

• Ice Breakers Ice Cubes

• Stride Sugarless Gum

• Trident Sugarfree Gum

• Wrigley’s Extra Sugarfree Gum

• Wrigley’s Orbit for Kids Sugarfree Gum

• Wrigley’s Orbit Sugarfree Gum