Is Gum Bad for Your Health?

Though sugary chewing gum can hurt dental health, sugarless gum can actually help. Because oral health problems can lead to other health problems---for instance, periodontal disease and cardiovascular disease seem linked---chewing gum can play a positive role in overall health.

Fights Plaque

• Chewing gum releases saliva, which fights plaque acids. Plaque is a film of bacteria that damages teeth and gums.

Enamel

• Phosphate and calcium are also distributed by the saliva released in chewing gum. Phosphate and calcium strengthen tooth enamel.

ADA Recommendations

• The American Dental Association reports studies that say chewing sugarless gum for 20 minutes after eating can help prevent tooth decay.

ADA Seal

• The American Dental Association has given its seal to some chewing gum brands that have proven their product is helpful to oral health in some way.

Fortified Gum

• The use of chewing gum fortified with substances that can improve health is currently being investigated. Possible future ingredients of gum are calcium and fluoride.