If you are a regular gum chewer, keep in mind the insights into both the positive and potential negative aspects of making it a daily habit, says Dr Ninad Muley, consultant in prosthodontics and dental implants at Apollo Hospitals, Navi Mumbai (India).
Health benefits associated with chewing gum
Dental health: Chewing sugar-free gum, especially the kind that contains xylitol, can improve dental health.
It stimulates saliva production, the mouth's natural defense mechanism. Saliva neutralizes harmful acids, washes away food debris and helps remineralize tooth enamel, reducing the risk of cavities and gum disease.
However, Dr. Muley emphasizes that we should choose sugar-free gum to avoid tooth decay.
Cognitive benefits and stress relief: Chewing gum increases blood flow to the brain, potentially improving concentration, memory, and overall cognitive performance.
For frequent travelers, chewing gum during takeoff and landing can help equalize ear pressure by promoting the swallowing reflex, keeping the Eustachian tube open and reducing ear discomfort.
What happens if you chew gum for too long?
Jaw fatigue and pain: Chewing gum too much, especially on one side of the mouth, can strain the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), leading to jaw pain, headaches, earaches and difficulty chewing.
Tooth Erosion: Even sugar-free gum can contain acidic flavors, which when chewed over long periods of time can contribute to tooth erosion.
Once tooth enamel is lost, it cannot be regenerated. Bacteria in the mouth feed on sugar, creating acids that erode tooth enamel, increasing the risk of cavities and other dental problems over time.
Gastrointestinal problems: Continuous chewing of gum can cause excessive air swallowing, leading to bloating, gas and discomfort.
Artificial sweeteners in sugar-free gum, such as sorbitol, can cause indigestion and have a laxative effect, especially in sensitive individuals. Using gum as an appetite suppressant can also lead to unhealthy eating habits, such as skipping meals or choosing unhealthy snacks and fast foods.
Dr. Muley recommends chewing sugar-free gum for no more than 10 to 15 minutes after a meal.
This is enough to stimulate saliva production and clean teeth without overworking the jaw muscles.
