Did you know that sugar-free gum is good for your oral hygiene? Most people chew gum for 'fresh breath' or because they 'enjoy the taste' but the truth is that chewing gum offers much more. Over two decades of research has shown that chewing sugar-free gum provides various oral health benefits.
It's important to remember that oral health and overall health are interlinked. Gum disease for example is capable of affecting other body organs through infection through the bloodstream. Sadly in India, only 2% of the population actually visits dentists and many of them don't ever find out about their poor oral health. While any dentist worth his or her salt will tell you that a person should brush at least twice a day and floss daily and visit the dentist regularly. Unfortunately, that's not possible in our daily life and hence the need for on-the-go oral care. This is where chewing gum can make a difference.
Chewing gum immediately after eating is a portable and convenient supplement to your oral care routine which helps fight cavities. It also helps relieve your mouth of dryness. Regularly chewing gum actually helps increase the production of saliva by 10 times. Additionally, research has shown that chewing sugar-free gum for 20 minutes after eating or drinking can help reduce tooth decay risk by up to 40%, which, along with regular dental visits, can promote a healthier and happier mouth.
Of course it can't replace basic oral hygiene practices but it definitely helps boost oral hygiene when supplemented with brushing and flossing which ensures total oral care. The best time to chew gum is after eating. Chewing gum for 20 minutes removes food debris, plaque and stimulates the flow of saliva.
So, whether your mouth is feeling dry or you've just had something to eat or drink, consider reaching for a piece of sugar-free gum, your mouth will thank you.
The author Dr Ashok Dhoble is the Secretary General of the Indian Dental Association.
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