Chewing gum is a fun habit that most kids, teens, and adults enjoy. However, there are a few misconceptions about what gum can actually do for your oral health. At Macon Smiles, we are constantly working to educate our patients on the proper dental practices, how to improve their dental health, and what are the potential risk factors for poor dental health. The good news is, chewing gum does have some oral health benefits. The bad news is it can never replace adequate brushing and flossing. In order to keep up with your oral health, follow our gum chewing tips below!
Oral Health Benefits of Chewing Gum
Our dentist in Macon wants to let you in on a little secret: chewing sugar-free gum can help prevent cavities, especially when it is chewed after meal times. The American Dental Association (ADA) states that chewing gum can help prevent tooth decay. Chewing gum naturally increases the flow of saliva in your mouth which can help wash away sugars, food particles and bacteria. Saliva also neutralizes your mouth and prevents the harmful build up of acids which can eat away at your protective enamel. When sugar, bacteria, and acid are present in your mouth, it's a recipe for cavities. Thankfully, chewing sugar-free gum can be a helping hand in good oral health habits.
Chewing Gum Can Never Replace Brushing & Flossing
Although chewing gum does have it’s oral health benefits, it cannot replace good oral hygiene. It is imperative that you brush your teeth twice per day and floss once per day. In between your teeth and gums there are bacteria, sugar, and food particles that are just waiting to decay your teeth. The most effective way of removing these is by continually brushing and flossing your teeth in the morning and in the evening. If you have questions or concerns about your oral hygiene routine, never hesitate to ask our dentist in Macon!
Contact Macon Smiles for Your Next Dental Appointment!
If you are looking for an experienced dentist in Macon, contact Macon Smiles. Dr. Shah and our staff provide comprehensive dental care to children, teens, and adults. To schedule your next appointment, simply request an appointment online or call our office directly at (478) 757-8714. We look forward to seeing you soon!