Chewing gum and oral health

Chewing gum is sometimes said to be beneficial for oral health, though it may seem surprising given its association with sugar, which can lead to cavities.

Dentist's advice on sugar-free gum

Dr. Luc Lecerf, a dentist, advises that some chewing gums can have benefits if chosen without sugar. After a meal, chewing gum can temporarily aid in oral health.

Use of sugar-free gum in specific situations

In situations such as at restaurants, at work, or when traveling, where a toothbrush may not be available, chewing sugar-free gum is a good temporary solution. This is because chewing stimulates saliva production, which naturally protects teeth.

Importance of choosing the right gum

To benefit from this effect, it is necessary to choose the right chewing gum. It is absolutely necessary to choose sugar-free chewing gum because not all chewing gums are the same, with the main difference being their sugar content.

Sugar's role in dental decay

The bacteria present on dental plaque feed on sugars from food, converting them into acids that can attack the enamel and promote the development of cavities when these episodes repeat. A classic chewing gum containing sugar can therefore contradict the desired effect.

Benefits of sugar-free gum

In contrast, sugar-free chewing gum allows saliva to be stimulated while limiting the risk of exposure to acids. However, one should be careful: even without sugar, chewing gum does not replace tooth brushing.

Risks of prolonged chewing

Chewing all day is not necessarily a good idea. Keeping a piece of chewing gum in the mouth from morning to evening to protect one's teeth is not recommended, as prolonged chewing can affect the jaw muscles and the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), potentially leading to tension, fatigue, or pain in the jaw, or exacerbating temporomandibular joint disorders in people who are already sensitive.

Limitations of chewing gum

Multiplying hours of chewing does not provide additional benefits for the teeth, emphasizes Dr. Lecerf. Chewing gum after every meal is not necessarily advisable.

Conclusion on gum's role

Chewing gum can be beneficial for teeth, but only in a specific context: sugar-free and used occasionally, especially after a meal when brushing is not possible. Its main advantage is not to "clean" the teeth, but to stimulate saliva production, which naturally contributes to protecting the enamel. However, it does not replace brushing: "Chewing gum remains a complement and not an alternative to good oral hygiene," concludes Dr. Lecerf.