Are you a Gum Chewer? Your Teeth May Thank You

at Riverside Dental Group know the benefits of chewing sugar free gum with proper timing. As long as you are aware the facts before you scan the multitudes of gum packs at your grocery store, you can make a choice that is terrific for your dental health.

In an Oral Hygiene Crunch? Chew on This:

Brushing your teeth at least twice a day is the recommended oral hygiene practice from the American Dental Association (ADA) and most dentists. However, when you eat a meal that is high in sugar or refined carbs, you may want to brush your teeth an extra time or two. If that’s not a possibility because you are out and about, a stick of sugar-free gum with xylitol offers a breath freshening temporary fix. Tooth decay is caused by germs but if they are the dynamite, sugar is the match. Sugarless gum removes food particles from between your teeth which gives bacteria a lot less to snack on. Sugarless gum also stimulates saliva production which washes away germs and food debris.

What is the Importance of Xylitol?

Pick up any pack of gum and check out the ingredients list. Xylitol is a key ingredient in most sugarless varieties these days. This natural sweetener tastes a lot like sugar, but is so much better for your teeth. Not only does it protect you from a sucrose deluge, but xylitol actually kills bacteria rather than feeding them. The bacteria responsible for tooth decay and gum disease are attracted to xylitol like metal to a magnet. Once xylitol traps germs, they virtually starve and die. So if you find a chewing gum that says it is sugar-free and has xylitol chew away. Just remember your manners and don’t chew with your mouth open, or chomp down too aggressively. Excessive gum chewing can lead to TMJ issues.

Dental Checkups from Riverside Dentists

Whether you are interested in preventive, cosmetic, or restorative dentistry services, we have you covered at Riverside Dental Group. We can also meet your orthodontic needs. Call our 92504 dentist office at (951) 689-5031 for teeth whitening and all of your dental care needs.