How chewing gum impacts your mental health
If it has sugar, your chewing gum may raise your risk of tooth decay. The bacteria in your mouth metabolize sucralose and other carbohydrates. This can erode the enamel layer on the outside of your teeth. But chewing gum with sugar once in a while doesn’t pose major health risks, especially if you have good oral hygiene.
Sugar-free gum has less than 0.5 grams of sugars per serving and uses alternative sweeteners. The labels may mention sweeteners like
- Acesulfame-K
- Aspartame
- Neotame
- Saccharin
- Sucralose
- Erythritol
- Isomalt
- Maltitol
- Mannitol
- Sorbitol
- Xylitol
If your gum uses certain flavourings like citric acid, it may lower plaque buildup in your mouth. But keep in mind that if the gum also has sugar, the positive effects may be cancelled out.
Chewing triggers your mouth to make more saliva. This protects your mouth from decay and erosion because saliva acts as a buffer for your teeth. More saliva may carry away bacteria and acid that build up on your teeth.
Health Benefits of Chewing Gum
The benefits of chewing gum don’t stop in your mouth. More saliva may help balance acids in your esophagus, easing symptoms of acid reflux.
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is when stomach acid flows back into the tube that connects your mouth and stomach. Laryngopharyngeal reflux is when stomach acid goes up your esophagus to your throat. Gum may also help with dry mouth, at least for a short time. But as with reflux, it’s not a cure.
Be sure to maintain frequent appointments with your local dental clinic. Our team of dental professionals at East Ipswich Dental are always happy to serve you.
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