Sugarless Chewing Gum May Not Prevent Cavities
Sugarless chewing gum, specifically those made with a chemical called xylitol, is known for offering sweetness in exchange for no added sugars, but it turns out that its ability to prevent cavities isn’t exactly set in stone. Xylitol, a sugar-free sweetener that is often derived via birch trees, is a common ingredient in gum, candies, and lozenges, and, per a recent issue of Consumer Reports on Health , some products that feature xylitol as a key ingredient tend to boast about how it can inhibit bacterial growth in the mouth while also helping to prevent teeth from decaying.
Despite these claims, however, the evidence remains unclear still regarding whether gum that uses xylitol as a sweetener—and the amounts often used—provides any benefit over other sugar-free gums as a whole, which are said to help protect the teeth by bringing one’s saliva production up a notch. Whether your sugarless gum contains xylitol or not, the best sign that gum is not only good for your teeth but also effective and safe is the product having the American Dental Association (ADA) Seal of Acceptance, which means the ADA has verified that the gum has meant their criteria for effectiveness and safety and their veracity can be trusted by consumers.
As stated in previous instances by the ADA, clinical studies indicate that chewing sugar-free gum for roughly 20 minutes after a meal can help to prevent decay in the teeth. Chewing sugar-free gum increases saliva flow, which allows the mouth to better wash away food debris and other substances within the mouth. This simple act also neutralizes acids in the mouth made by bacteria while simultaneously providing disease-combating substances all through the mouth. The increased flow of saliva also causes more phosphate and calcium to come into the mouth, which greatly helps to strengthen teeth enamel.
As for the types of gum that can actually receive the ADA Seal of Acceptance, only sugarless gum products can get it, and it is what consumers should look for when they are most concerned about their sugarless gum of choice and whether it is safe for their teeth. However, chewing sticks of sugarless gum shouldn’t replace brushing twice per day and flossing at least once a day with interdental cleaners like dental floss. When brushing, the ADA recommends using fluoride toothpaste as well as using a fluoride mouthwash (preferably at the end of the day before bed) for maximum effect.
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