As a dental hygienist, I get asked all the time about the best ways to keep teeth healthy between brushings. One of my favorite recommendations is chewing sugar-free gum! But with so many options on the market, it can be hard to know which one is the best for your teeth. Let’s break down what to look for and some top picks.
Why Sugar-Free Gum is Good for Your Teeth
Before we dive into specific brands, let’s understand why sugar-free gum is a dental hygiene superhero. The magic lies in a few key factors:
Saliva Stimulation: Chewing gum encourages your mouth to produce more saliva. Saliva is your mouth’s natural defense mechanism. It helps neutralize acids produced by bacteria in your mouth after you eat. These acids are what attack your enamel and lead to cavities.
Plaque Removal: The act of chewing helps to dislodge food particles and plaque from your teeth. Think of it as a mini-cleaning session after a meal or snack when you can’t brush.
Enamel Strengthening: Some sugar-free gums contain minerals like calcium and phosphate, which can help remineralize (strengthen) tooth enamel.
Breath Freshening: Let’s be honest, bad breath happens! Sugar-free gum can help freshen your breath, boosting your confidence and social interactions.
What to Look for in Sugar-Free Gum
Not all sugar-free gums are created equal. Here’s what you should consider when choosing a gum for optimal dental health:
Sweetener: Make sure the gum is sweetened with non-cariogenic sweeteners – that is, sweeteners that don’t cause cavities. Common options include:
- Xylitol
- Sorbitol
- Mannitol
- Aspartame
- Sucralose
- Erythritol
Xylitol Content: Xylitol is a star player when it comes to dental health. It not only sweetens the gum without feeding cavity-causing bacteria, but it also actively inhibits their growth. Aim for gums where xylitol is listed as one of the first ingredients for maximum benefit. Some studies suggest that chewing xylitol-sweetened gum multiple times a day can significantly reduce the risk of cavities.
ADA Seal of Acceptance: Look for the American Dental Association (ADA) Seal of Acceptance on the packaging. This seal indicates that the gum has been scientifically evaluated for safety and effectiveness in promoting oral health.
Flavor: Choose a flavor you enjoy! If you like the taste, you’re more likely to chew it regularly.
My Top Sugar-Free Gum Recommendations
Okay, let’s get to the good stuff! Based on my experience and the criteria above, here are some of my favorite sugar-free gums for promoting healthy teeth:
Trident Xtra Care: Trident Xtra Care is a solid choice because it contains xylitol and has the ADA Seal of Acceptance. It comes in various flavors, making it easy to find one you like. The “Xtra Care” formulation also includes Recaldent (CPP-ACP), which is a milk-derived protein that can help remineralize tooth enamel.
Orbit: Orbit is another widely available option with the ADA Seal. While it often contains sorbitol as the primary sweetener, some varieties do include xylitol. Check the ingredient list carefully to ensure you’re getting the most beneficial option.
PUR Gum: PUR Gum is a great choice if you’re looking for a gum that’s exclusively sweetened with xylitol. It’s also vegan, gluten-free, and non-GMO, appealing to those with specific dietary needs. The flavors are refreshing and long-lasting.
Spry Gum: Spry Gum is similar to PUR in that it’s sweetened only with xylitol. It comes in a variety of flavors, including some unique options like cinnamon and green tea. Spry also offers gum with added calcium for extra enamel strengthening.
Epic Dental 100% Xylitol Gum: As the name suggests, Epic Dental gum is completely sweetened with xylitol. This makes it a potent choice for fighting cavity-causing bacteria. It’s a favorite among dental professionals.
How to Chew Gum Effectively for Dental Health
Chewing sugar-free gum is a great habit, but here are a few tips to maximize its benefits:
Timing: Chew gum for about 20 minutes after meals or snacks. This is the ideal timeframe for stimulating saliva production and neutralizing acids.
Frequency: Chew gum several times a day, especially after eating. The more you chew, the more you benefit.
Don’t Overdo It: While chewing gum is generally safe, excessive chewing (several hours a day) can potentially lead to jaw muscle soreness or temporomandibular joint (TMJ) issues in some individuals. If you experience any discomfort, reduce your chewing time.
Are There Any Downsides to Chewing Gum?
For most people, chewing sugar-free gum is perfectly safe and beneficial. However, there are a few things to keep in mind:
Artificial Sweeteners: Some people are sensitive to artificial sweeteners like aspartame or sucralose. If you experience any adverse reactions, such as headaches or digestive issues, try a gum sweetened with xylitol or erythritol instead.
TMJ Issues: As mentioned earlier, excessive chewing can exacerbate TMJ disorders in some individuals. If you have TMJ problems, consult with your dentist or doctor before regularly chewing gum.
Loose Fillings or Crowns: If you have loose fillings or crowns, chewing gum could potentially dislodge them. See your dentist to have these issues addressed before incorporating gum into your routine.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is sugar-free gum safe for children?
Yes, sugar-free gum is generally safe for children, but it’s important to supervise young children to ensure they don’t swallow it. Gum is typically recommended for children who are old enough to understand not to swallow it, usually around age 5 or 6.
Can sugar-free gum replace brushing and flossing?
Absolutely not! Sugar-free gum is a helpful addition to your oral hygiene routine, but it should never replace brushing and flossing. Brushing removes plaque and debris from all surfaces of your teeth, while flossing cleans between your teeth where your toothbrush can’t reach. Gum simply provides an extra boost of saliva and some surface cleaning.
Does the flavor of the gum matter?
Not really in terms of dental health benefits, but the flavor you choose should be one you enjoy! This will make you more likely to chew it regularly. Some flavors might freshen breath better than others, but the key is the saliva stimulation and ingredients like xylitol.
How do I know if I’m chewing too much gum?
If you experience jaw pain, headaches, or other discomfort, you may be chewing too much gum. Try reducing the amount of time you spend chewing each day and see if that helps. If the pain persists, consult with your dentist or doctor.
Choosing the right sugar-free gum can be a simple and effective way to boost your oral health between brushings. Look for gums with xylitol, the ADA Seal of Acceptance, and a flavor you enjoy. Remember, gum is a supplement to, not a replacement for, a good oral hygiene routine. Keep brushing, flossing, and seeing your dentist regularly for a healthy, happy smile!
