Several years ago I decided to take a trip to the dentist after skipping multiple appointments for over 15 years. I truly had a dental anxiety and had a hard time getting over my fears. Thankfully, my dental visit went smoothly with only four cavities identified. What I did find from this dental visit was that there was a great deal of new information and technology that I had been missing out on. Laser-based technology and digital imaging are just a few examples. With this blog, I want you to understand that you can get over your fears and learn about this new technology like I did, so enjoy the information.
Chewing gum can be a healthy lifestyle choice, but only if the gum is sugar-free. Gum that contains sugar can heighten your risk for cavities, and may even raise your risk for developing oral fungal infections and gum disease. Here are some ways chewing sugarless gum can keep your mouth healthy:
Reduces Oral Bacterial Counts
One of the most common artificial sweeteners used in sugarless chewing gum is xylitol. It is thought to slow the growth of bacteria, including a certain strain of streptococcus, which is thought to play a role in the development of dental cavities.
Not only can xylitol inhibit the growth of bacteria, it also makes bacteria less likely to stick to the teeth. Sugarless gum that contains xylitol may be especially beneficial for diabetics. People with diabetes are at risk for developing oral fungal and yeast infections, and because xylitol can help inhibit the growth of certain bacterial and fungal microorganisms, the risk for these types of oral infections may be lower in those who consume it.
It is important to note, that while xylitol-containing gum has positive effects on oral health, chewing large amounts of sugarless gum may cause abdominal cramps, bloating, excess gas, and diarrhea.
Less Dental Erosion And More Salivary Flow
Chewing sugarless gum may help reduce your risk for developing acid erosion of your dental enamel. Acid erosion makes your enamel weak and thin, and makes you more susceptible to cavities.
Artificial sweeteners help neutralize harmful acids produced by bacteria so that the acids are less likely to damage your tooth enamel. Also, the artificial sweeteners in the chewing gum, along with the mechanical activity of chewing, help stimulate the flow of saliva, which helps wash away the bacteria that is responsible for cavities and gum disease.
Sugarless gum may also be helpful for those who have an autoimmune disorder known as Sjögren's syndrome, which causes dry mouth as a result of salivary gland dysfunction. When the mouth gets too dry, cavities are more likely to develop.
To learn more about the benefits of chewing sugarless gum, make an appointment with your dental care services professional. While chewing sugarless gum may help improve your oral health, talk to your dentist about it if you have braces, dental bridges, crowns, or porcelain veneers. He or she may recommend a type of non-sticky chewing gum that is specially formulated so that it does not stick to dental work.
Share30 June 2019
