We’ve all heard our parents and dentists telling us to lay off of candy to keep our teeth in the best possible condition, but did you know that not all of those treats are bad for your teeth? Contrary to popular belief, there are certain types of gum that can be beneficial to your teeth, especially the sugarless kind. Recent studies have shown that those who frequently enjoy a piece of gum or two throughout the day are inclined to have better oral health and tooth integrity.
Want to find out just how gum works to keep your teeth in top shape? Read on to learn more about how gum can improve dental health:
Chewing Gum Increases Saliva Production
Saliva plays an important role that many of us tend to overlook. This liquid secretion doesn’t only make it easier for us to chew and digest our food, it also contains important compounds that are necessary to protect our teeth and improve their resistance against the many things we eat throughout the day. Saliva mainly works to strengthen the enamel that envelopes our teeth, thus enhancing our teeth’s defense against everyday wear and tear. What’s more, a constant, healthy production of saliva makes it possible for us to fight against cavities. Because chewing gum stimulates saliva production, those who choose to chew are in a better position to combat cavities.
Chewing Gum Strengthens the Enamel
Think of gum chewing as your teeth’s way of going to the gym. The more you challenge them, the stronger they become. Chewing gum works to strengthen the enamel by producing saliva and encouraging the remineralization of the tooth’s enamel.
Chewing Gum Removes Plaque
Plaque is the white residue that accumulates on your teeth as a result of the food you eat. This plaque can cause damage to your teeth with time, and can even eat away at the healthy enamel that lies underneath. Chewing gum resolves the accumulation of plaque by gently brushing it away from the teeth and washing the structure with healthy saliva.
Chewing Gum Improves Gum Health
Apparently, gum is good for your gums. According to recent studies, chewing gum can act as a gentle massage for gums, encouraging blood circulation and improving overall gum health. To make the most of your gum chewing, ensure that you get CDA-approved sugarless gum so your teeth can maximize the benefits of this simple activity.
Sugarless gum can benefit your teeth, but nothing helps your dental help like regular visits to your dentist in Ottawa! Carlingwood Dental Centre is conveniently located in Ottawa’s west end and provides comprehensive dental services, including dental exams, extractions, restorations, pediatric dentistry, Invisalign, and cosmetic dentistry.
