Chewing Gum Could Be Good for More Than Just Your Breath

Looking for an extra excuse to grab a pack of gum during your next grocery run or stop at the gas station? It turns out, chewing sugar-free gum could be useful for much more than just freshening your breath. Research indicates that chewing sugar-free gum could actually be a helpful measure in preventing dental decay, making it a simple yet effective step in part of a preventive oral care routine. So if you care about your smile, consider gum in lieu of a mint, the next time you need to freshen your breath after a lunch break. It could help you prevent cavities and other dental problems.

What Research Says About Chewing Gum

According to a recent study published in the British Dental Journal, chewing sugar-free gum could help save money on restorative dental care, by drastically reducing the likelihood of developing cavities and other dental problems caused by decay. The researchers at the Plymouth University Peninsula Schools of Medicine and Dentistry found that the National Health Service (NHS) in the United Kingdom could save over 8 million Euros a year by simply having 12-year-olds consistently chew pieces of sugar-free-gums after meals, snacking and drinking.

Their research indicates that the gum helps increase saliva production, which is the body’s natural defense against harmful plaque buildup. Saliva makes it harder for bacteria to stick to the surface of the teeth, and also helps to neutralize the acidity it creates, helping to protect the smile from the potential repercussions of plaque buildup.

So if you would like to avoid cavities, gum disease, and other dental problems, consider chewing a piece of sugar-free gums after meals. While it’s no substitute for regular dental care, including brushing, flossing, and regular dental checkups and cleanings, chewing gum could be a helpful addition to your oral care routine!

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