Chew on this. The answer is YES, chewing gum CAN prevent cavities, but only if it’s sugarless gum with the ADA (American Dental Association) Seal. This seal provides assurance that the product has met the ADA criteria for effectiveness and safety.
Chewing sugarless gum after meals increases the flow of saliva, which helps to wash away particles of food. The increase in saliva flow brings added calcium and phosphate to help strengthen tooth enamel. The gum can also neutralize the bacteria that causes tooth decay.
Pretty effective results from an activity as pleasant and common as chewing gum. The website Mouth Healthy has a great video on it’s website that illustrates the points in this blog very well.
The video also advises the following:
- Eat healthy foods
- Drink plenty of water
- Brush twice a day
- Floss once a day
- Schedule regular dental check-ups
Dr. Frank Sierra adds, “I recommend that parents carry some sugar-free gum for occasions when they or their family can’t brush or floss right away. It’s not a substitute or proper dental care, but it does more good than damage.”
