Here's The Lowdown From Crown House Dental in Egham…

With chewing gum, the types with sugar in are undoubtedly bad for your teeth, just like any other high sugar product. Certain brands do have a lot of sugar in them and chewing them could be as bad for you as chewing a sugary sweet, exposing your teeth to harm for long periods of time.

However, types without sugar in are actually proven to be good for your oral health, particularly if they contain a certain type of sweetener. Obviously, nothing can replace a good dental health regime where you brush for two minutes twice a day every day, avoid bad habits like smoking, and visit your Egham dentist regularly. However, sugar free gum can support a good oral health regime and form part of excellent daily dental health care.

A Natural Teeth Cleaning Action

Chewing sugar free gum after a meal helps to remove some of the food debris that has built up on the teeth. The additional production of the saliva helps to rinse the teeth further and it helps neutralise any acid present in the mouth. If the gum is naturally sweet, the sweet flavour will stimulate even more saliva, rinsing away even more debris and further protecting the teeth.

Xylitol Tackles Nasty Bacteria

Xylitol is a natural sweetener added to some sugar free gum. It is thought that the sweetener stops bacteria sticking to the teeth and so protects the teeth to some degree when it comes to plaque build up and tooth decay.

Is Chewing Gum Right For Everyone?

Sugar free chewing gum consumed in excess can cause diarrhea, so it isn't recommended to exceed the consumption recommendations listed on the packet. Sugar free gum is also often unsuitable for people with jaw issues such as TMJ (temporomandibular disorder).  It is also usually unsuitable for people with braces because it can get stuck in the brackets and wires and can even require removal by the dentist.

Sugar Free Gum Cannot Replace A Good Oral Health Regime

It is so important to understand that sugar free gum is not a replacement for a good oral health regime. Nor can it undo damage caused by a diet high in sugar and starch. To maintain a beautiful and healthy smile it is important to:

• Brush twice a day for two minutes each time
• Visit your Egham dentist as regularly as advised
• Consume a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables
• Avoid habits like smoking and excessive drinking
• Use the right toothpaste and toothbrush for your needs

Do You Need To Register With Your Local Egham Dentist?

For more advice on sugar free gum and for professional general, cosmetic and restorative dentistry treatments, thorough checkups and dental support, please give us a call. You can call us on 01784432641 and our friendly team will be more than happy to help you!