Is chewing gum really bad for your teeth? The argument has existed for as long as time itself, or at least as long as dental care. The influence of chewing gum on oral health can be quite large, depending just on how much sugar it contains. Although sugar-free gum has certain advantages, sugary gum is extremely harmful to tooth health.
Is Chewing Gum Really That Bad For Your Teeth?
When you chew sugar-sweetened gum, it leaves trace quantities of sugar behind. These carbohydrates help in the reproduction of oral bacteria. The gum’s sugar is broken down by the bacteria, creating acids that erode tooth enamel which protects the surface of your teeth. The germs can then enter deeper layers of your teeth through gaps in the enamel, which leads to cavities, more serious tooth decay, and gum disease. Many dental and other health issues can arise, if left untreated.
Can Chewing Gum Cause TMJ Issues?
Your lower jawbone joins your skull at the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), which is situated directly in front of your ears. TMJ dysfunction affects 5–12% of the population and manifests itself in a variety of ways, including:
- Pain in your shoulders, neck, or face
- Having jaw pain or stiffness
- Popping or clicking in your jaw
- Having trouble opening and shutting your mouth
- Migraines and other headaches
- Tinnitus, or running in your ears, or earaches
- Bite problems, or malocclusion
The effect of chewing gum on the condition of people with Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMJ) can be a source of disagreement. While some people may find that chewing gum lightly sometimes helps to relax their jaw muscles, excessive or continuous gum chewing can greatly worsen pre-existing TMJ problems.
Is Gum Without Sugar Harmful to Your Teeth?
Children and teenagers who frequently chew gum might benefit from parents sharing this dental hygiene tip – Just make sure your kids use sugar-free gum rather than sugary bubble gum, which can have the reverse effect and exacerbate tooth plaque.
The American Dental Association advises sugarless gum. The packaging of certain varieties of sugarless gum bears the organization’s stamp of approval. Therefore, while buying gum for yourself or your family, search for that seal if you are unsure which gum is ideal for encouraging dental health.
How Can I Maintain the Health of My Teeth?
The best strategies to maintain the health of your teeth and gums are, as everyone knows, brushing twice a day and flossing as frequently as you tell your dentist you do. However, there are several more strategies to maintain the health of your teeth and gums, such as:
- Regular dental checkups
- Using an electric toothbrush on a daily basis
- Knowing how much sugar is in the foods and beverages you consume
- Limiting grains and sweet foods
- Using an interdental brush or flossing at least once a day
- Maintaining hydration to prevent dry mouth
- Applying toothpaste that contains fluoride
Ending Note!
Chewing sugary gum can have huge impacts on your oral health. Although sugar-free gum has certain advantages, sugary gum is extremely harmful to tooth health.
If you have further concerns about your dental health, consult our expert dentists at Precision Smile Dentistry. Call (540) 300-2255 to book your appointment.