Chewing gum is a popular pastime among children and adults alike. It helps with oral stimulation and quitting unhealthy habits, but is gum bad for you?
Dentists generally advise against chewing gum because of its effects on your jaws and teeth. There are pros and cons to regularly chewing gum, and it is up to you to make the best decision for your dental health.
To get find out what is doing damage to your teeth in your everyday life schedule an appointment with Trident General Dentistry.
Benefits of Chewing Gum
Chewing gum can have health benefits if done in moderation. Many people use gum to substitute for other habits, like smoking or overeating. Some people focus better at work or school if they are chewing gum. Overall, chewing gum has positives that make it worthwhile in some cases.
Improving Focus
Chewing gum increases blood flow to your brain, which aids in focus and productivity. The movement of your jaws during chewing stimulates blood flow and gives your brain extra resources for memory, critical thinking, and focus. This is why students often chew gum while studying for a big test.
Managing Weight
Gum can help with weight management in people who have trouble with overeating. Chewing gum provides oral stimulation and allows people to focus on the act of chewing rather than reaching for snacks. It can also have an appetite suppressant effect due to the flavorings and sugars in the gum.
Increasing Production of Saliva
In some cases, gum helps with digestion. You produce more saliva when you are constantly chewing, and saliva helps break down food particles to aid in digestion. This makes it easier for your stomach and intestines to process the food.
Overall, gum has many positive effects. When you chew gum in moderation, the adverse effects should not outweigh the benefits.
How Is Gum Bad for Your Health?
Chewing gum does have a negative side. The amount of time you chew gum daily strongly affects the severity of these adverse effects. In most cases, chewing gum every once in a while does not cause much harm.
Jaw Pain and Headaches
Too much chewing can wear out your jaw muscles and worsen conditions like temporomandibular joint disorders, also known as TMJ. TMJ is characterized by clicking and jaw pain while chewing. To avoid this problem, limit the amount of time you spend chewing gum.
Similarly, chewing gum too frequently can strain the muscles surrounding your jaw, head, and neck. This can lead to tension headaches and jaw pain. If you are an avid gum chewer and find yourself battling headaches often, consider cutting down on your chewing habits.
Tooth Decay
Gum with a lot of sugar and flavorings can contribute to tooth decay and cavities. Just like candy and soda, high-sugar gum breaks down the enamel on your teeth and allows bacteria to build up on the surface. This can lead to rotting teeth and fillings if the cavities become severe.
Upset Stomach
Depending on the type of gum you chew, the ingredients can have a laxative effect. Sugar-free gums typically contain chemicals that can upset your stomach in high quantities. While sugar-free gum is better for your teeth and dental health, it can have negative effects on your digestion.
Get Dental Exams to Prevent Gum-Related Problems
If you chew gum a lot and are concerned for your dental health, visit us at Trident General Dentistry in Charleston, South Carolina. Our caring team of dental professionals will evaluate your oral health and treat any existing dental problems you may have. Book an appointment with us to schedule your dental exam today!