Millions of people around the world, from small to large, chew gum. Chewing gum, whose history dates back to ancient Greece, is indispensable for almost everyone, especially the favorite of children. So, is gum good or bad for your teeth?

Our doctors said the following about the effects of chewing gum on oral and dental health: “When we look at its history, the first chewing gum produced in the 1800s used rosin tree extract. As the world population and the use of chewing gum increased over time, natural substances were insufficient to meet the demand for chewing gum. Today, chewing gums containing synthetic elastomer-based substances and flavoring substances are produced. While the first chewing gums were sweetened with sugar, sorbitol or xylitol is used for this purpose today.

Gum has the following effects on dental and jaw health:

1- Chewing gum increases saliva flow rate. Saliva is one of the body's most important defense mechanisms. In addition, the washing effect of saliva is an important factor reducing the risk of caries. The salivary flow rate increased by chewing gum is 3 to 10 times higher than normal.

2- Chewing gum has an effect on preventing the formation of tartar. Tartar (tartar, calculus) is formed by the hardening of dental plaque. Chewing gum increases the pH of dental plaque and reduces its acidity.

3- It contributes positively to the repair process of newly formed caries. Studies show that chewing sugar-free gum after meals or snacks reduces caries onset lesions.

4- It should not be overlooked that the effect of chewing gum on cleaning the teeth or removing plaque mechanically is less than tooth brushing.

5- Chewing gum for a long time tires the jaw muscles. This can cause muscle pain, burning, earache, and clicking sounds when opening and closing the jaw.

In general, clinical and experimental studies show that chewing gum has positive effects on teeth.

Due to the caries-causing effect of sugary gums, it is recommended to prefer gums that are characterized as tooth-friendly. Gums with xylitol are thought to prevent dental caries. ”