You’ve always been a fan of chewing gum, but your oral health has declined. You are especially worried about the effects that gum has had on your enamel. Thankfully, it turns out that sugar-free gum is one way you can strengthen your enamel naturally. But how? And why?

It’s Been Confirmed: Sugar-Free Gum Can Help Strengthen Enamel

For years, dentists have tried to steer people away from chewing too much gum. The reasons are pretty obvious: the excessive sugar in most gum breaks down enamel and the excessive chewing can wear down your jaw.

However, The American Dental Association recently released information that sugar-free gum has been tested as having positive enamel-boosting effects when chewed for 20 minutes after meals.

Why Does It Help?

Chewing sugar-free gum increases the amount of saliva in your mouth and when this extra saliva is introduced after eating, it naturally boosts your levels of calcium and phosphate. These two substances are absolutely crucial for promoting stronger enamel. Chewing also helps eliminate the enamel-eating acids and bacteria generated in your mouth when you eat.

Ok, it might sound like we’re saying that just chewing gum after a meal is the best thing you can do for your oral health. Well, the best solution is to either vigorously rinse your mouth with water, brush your teeth gently, and floss after eating. Wait a few minutes to brush if your meal has been acidic. However, we realize that you might not always have a toothbrush and floss handy, so in these cases, chewing sugar-free gum may help get rid of some of the bacteria that will break down your enamel.

Not All Gum Is Made Equal

Before you rush out and buy a random brand of sugar-free gum, make sure you are checking the package for the ADA seal of approval. Not all sugar-free gums will possess this seal for a variety of reasons. Typically, gums with sweeteners like sorbitol or mannitol will get this seal. Here is a short list that the ADA has put together of their approved sugar-free gums. This list isn’t all inclusive; there are many small, all-natural gum brands that didn’t make the list. Here you will find a short list of some of the best all-natural (with fewer chemicals) gums, including ones that do not contain aspartame.

See Dr. Miller today to discuss other ways to build your enamel. You can call today or schedule an appointment online. We can’t wait to see your smile!