Chewing gums have been a long-held solution for foul breath. According to the US Census Bureau, the average American chews 1.8 pounds of gum every year. Well, the numbers should not be startling as gums remain a consistent part of our lives, from the candy-yearning childhood days to the peak of adulthood where chomping on a gum becomes a stress-relieving mechanism. Furthermore, anecdotal evidence and grapevine suggest that gums may possess surprising benefits, such as memory retention and jaw-defining. So is the pile of goodness associated with gums factual, or are they simply a capitalist fad. Let us find out!

Health and chewing gums – are they compatible?

Gums can be good for oral health only if they are sugar-free. Constantly munching on gums with a high concentration of sugar will eventually cause dental caries and toothache. But, even with ‘sugar-free’ gums, it is essential to exercise caution. Experts have found that ‘sugar-free’ products contain a sweetener called sorbitol that may have some side effects. Also, chewing too much ‘sugar-free’ gums can lead to bowel problems. Chewing gum 30 minutes before a meal creates a feeling of being full; as such, we eat less, and there is a calorie deficit. People can go overboard with this habit, resulting in severe weight loss. Coming back to dental health, several whitening chewing gums available in the market can, indeed, whiten teeth because of their grittiness. The typical substance found in whitening gums – titanium oxide – is beneficial in reducing teeth discoloration. But, on the contrary, chomping on gums with a high concentration of sweeteners can make the teeth appear more yellow. Another ostensible advantage of chewing gums is defining the jawline. Munching on gum activates eight different muscles on the face and neck, thereby relaxing them. Therefore, the process of gum chewing aids in achieving a dream jawline and reducing the unwarranted double chin. 

How long should you chew gum?

Research corroborates that constantly chewing gum, at all hours of the day can create problems like jaw pain, headaches, diarrhea, and tooth decay. There is no ideal time frame for chewing gum. But, you should avoid regularity, and it should not become a habit. One gum a day or on alternate days is viable and beneficial. Choose a suitable, sugar-free variant that will keep the ill effects of gums at bay. 

Ways to keep teeth and gums after constantly munching on gums

If chewing countless gums a day has become part and parcel of your life, taking extra care of the gums and teeth is even more critical. If the gums contain high amounts of sugar, try to cut down on other sources like chocolates, candies, etc., to keep your oral health in check. Regular brushing of teeth, followed by dental flossing, and a premium-quality mouthwash are mandatory to stop bacteria accumulation and prevent plaque formation. Finally, regular visits to the dentist are vital to keeping those pearly whites in the best possible condition. 

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