Your teeth have treated you well; why not treat them back? There is a great way to make sure your teeth stay clean all day long, instead of waiting for your evening brush. Chewing gum!
Studies have shown that chewing sugar-free gum for 20 minutes after meals can help prevent cavities. This occurs because the gum stimulates saliva production in the mouth. Saliva is the body’s first defence against cavities. It washes away food debris and other particles, as well as the acid-producing bacteria that cause cavities. It also provides nutrients and fortifying substances to the mouth, helping shore up your teeth against tooth decay.
Of course, sugared gum also stimulates saliva production. However, the sugar present in the gum feeds the bacteria you are trying to fight, thus negating the beneficial effects of the saliva. It is important to choose a gum that has the ADA Seal of Acceptance. This seal is granted to products proven through rigorous testing to be beneficial to your mouth, and do what they say they do. Searching for brands that hold this seal will guarantee you are getting a quality product that will help fight cavities.
Chewing gum has other positive health benefits to the body. It has even been shown to help with the effects of heartburn! Heartburn is caused by acids from the stomach traveling up the esophagus and slowly wearing away these tissues. However, if the acids reach your mouth, they can also damage your teeth. Sugarless gum can help protect your teeth from the acids and even prevent heartburn from occurring.
For more mouth-healthy tips in Hopewell, New Jersey, call Orlando Family Dentistry, LLC at 609-466-1332. Dr. Christopher M. Spelman and our team will be happy to help!