Chewing gum is a soft, cohesive substance designed for chewing without being swallowed. It’s widely enjoyed by people of all ages and is available in various flavours, from classic mint to fruity varieties. The primary appeal of chewing gum lies in its ability to freshen breath, provide a quick treat, and, in some cases, offer oral health benefits. Modern chewing gum is often sugar-free, making it a convenient and tooth-friendly option for maintaining oral hygiene on the go.
Benefits of Chewing Gum for Oral Health
Stimulates Saliva: When you chew gum, the act of chewing itself stimulates the salivary glands in your mouth to produce more saliva. This process is a natural reflex; as you chew, the mechanical action of your jaw muscles and teeth signals the brain to increase saliva production. The flavor and texture of the gum further enhance this response, making the mouth feel like it needs to process food, which in turn keeps the salivary glands active and producing saliva.
Why Saliva Is Important for Us
- Neutralising Acids
- Buffering Capacity: Saliva contains bicarbonate, which acts as a buffer to neutralise acids in the mouth. These acids are typically produced by bacteria in dental plaque when they metabolise sugars from food and drinks.
- pH Balance: By neutralising acids, saliva helps maintain a neutral pH in the mouth. This is crucial because an acidic environment can erode tooth enamel, leading to tooth decay.
- Washing Away Food Particles
- Mechanical Cleaning: The flow of saliva helps physically wash away food particles and debris from the surfaces of teeth and gums. This reduces the amount of substrate available for bacteria to feed on, thereby decreasing the production of harmful acids.
- Enzymatic Action: Saliva contains enzymes like amylase, which begin the digestion of carbohydrates in the mouth. This helps break down food particles more efficiently, making them easier to clear away.
- Lubrication: The moistening effect of saliva keeps the mouth tissues lubricated, preventing dryness and facilitating the movement of food particles out of the oral cavity during swallowing.
Sugar-Free Gum Can Reduce Plaque Buildup

Sugar-free gum can help reduce plaque buildup through several mechanisms:
- Increased Saliva Production: As mentioned earlier, chewing stimulates saliva flow. Increased saliva prod
uction helps wash away food particles and sugars that bacteria in the mouth would otherwise feed on, reducing the formation of plaque.
- Xylitol Content: Many sugar-free gums contain xylitol, a natural sweetener that bacteria cannot metabolise. Xylitol not only inhibits the growth of bacteria that cause plaque but also reduces their ability to stick to the teeth and form biofilms, which are the foundation of plaque.
- Mechanical Cleaning: The act of chewing gum itself provides a gentle mechanical cleaning action on the teeth and gums, which helps dislodge and remove plaque and food debris.
- Buffering Capacity: Sugar-free gum can help neutralise acids produced by bacteria in the mouth. The increased saliva flow enhances the mouth’s buffering capacity, neutralising harmful acids that contribute to plaque formation and tooth decay.
How to Chew Gum Responsibly
- Choose Sugar-Free Gum: these are less likely to contribute to tooth decay and plaque buildup.
- Limit Chewing Time: chew for 10-15 minutes – this is generally enough time to freshen breath and stimulate saliva production without overworking your jaw. Prolonged chewing can strain jaw muscles and lead to issues like temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders.
- Practice Good Oral Hygiene: Chewing gum is not a substitute for brushing and flossing. Maintain a routine of brushing twice a day and flossing daily. Regular dental check-ups are essential to monitor and maintain your oral health.
- Consult a Professional: if you have any concerns about your oral health related to gum chewing, talk to your Floss Family Dental dentist.