At Sullivan Family Dental, we want to make sure you’re developing healthy oral hygiene habits at home. After all, a little bit of preventive care can limit or eliminate a wide range of dental issues. From brushing twice daily and flossing regularly to limiting your intake of sodas, sweets, and other foods that cause cavities, there are many steps you can take outside of our office that keep your teeth healthy and your smile bright.
One of our favorite pieces of advice to our patients is simple and fun: sugar-free chewing gum! Chewing sugarless gum has a variety of proven benefits that keep your teeth healthy in between your regular visits. From preventing cavities and reducing tooth sensitivity to strengthening enamel, sugar-free gum packs quite a punch in the way of preventive care.
Cavity Prevention
Chewing sugar free gum increases salivary flow, which can help wash away or neutralize acids that occur when food is broken down by bacteria in plaque on teeth. This helps keep teeth strong and limits decay, reducing the risk for cavities.
Reduce Tooth Sensitivity
Chewing gum can also reduce tooth sensitivity caused by whitening treatments. Again, the increase in saliva flow as a result of chewing sugar-free gum is what provides this benefit.
Strengthen Enamel
Xylitol, the sweetener in sugar-free gum, has yet another secret super power – it reduces the acids left behind on your teeth from food and drink. This reduction in acid keeps your enamel strong, protecting you from decay and cavities. Sugar-free gum can also supply minerals, such as phosphate and calcium, to your teeth that act as a shield against enamel erosion.
If you like the idea of preventing cavities, reducing tooth sensitivity, and strengthening enamel with a simple trick, then grab a pack of sugarless gum next time you’re at the store. But, don’t forget that there is no substitute for regular flossing and brushing. As always, make sure you’re seeing Dr. Sullivan twice a year and maintaining good oral hygiene habits at home.
Want to schedule an appointment or ask us for more dental hygiene tips?
