Dott. Giuseppe Di Maio
Have you ever wondered if chewing gum is good or bad for your teeth? Although it is a very widespread habit, especially among younger people, not all chewing gum is the same. Some can help protect the teeth, others, on the contrary, can promote tooth decay, enamel erosion or other oral problems.
In this article we find out which gums to choose, which ones to avoid, and what the true effects of chewing gum on oral health are.
Which chewing gum to choose to avoid damaging your teeth?
Sugar free chewing gum is preferable to sugary gum.
Sugar free gum:
- They stimulate the production of saliva, which helps neutralize acids in the mouth
- They contribute to the mechanical cleaning of the teeth between meals
- They can help reduce plaque and prevent tooth decay
Sugar gum:
- They nourish the cariogenic bacteria in dental plaque
- They favor the formation of acids that attack the enamel
- They increase the risk of tooth decay if chewed regularly
Benefits of Chewing Gum (When Used Correctly)
- Anti-plaque effect: chewing sugar-free chewing gum for about 10 minutes helps remove microbes from the mouth. Studies indicate that over 100 million bacteria can adhere to rubber in this time.
- Salivary stimulation: saliva has a buffering effect on the acids produced by bacteria and helps maintain a good oral pH balance.
- Remineralising action: some gums contain minerals or agents derived from milk proteins (such as CPP-ACP) which strengthen tooth enamel and help prevent its erosion.
Beyond 10 minutes, chewing gum loses its effectiveness and can become a vehicle for the reintroduction of bacteria into the oral cavity.
Which chewing gum to avoid
- Gums with sugar: drastically increase the risk of tooth decay.
- Gums containing food acids (e.g. citric, malic acid): present in gums with a fruity or “sour” flavor, they can slowly erode tooth enamel, making them weaker and more sensitive.
- Excessive use: Even good gum, if chewed excessively, can cause jaw pain, temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders and facial muscle tension.
Which gums to prefer to protect your teeth
Always choose chewing gum that:
- They are sugar free
- They contain xylitol, a natural sweetener that hinders cariogenic bacteria
- Are enriched with minerals or remineralising agents (CPP-ACP or similar)
- Have an “approved by dental associations” label (e.g. ADA or European recognitions)
The dentist’s advice
Chewing gum can be a useful habit, but only if done mindfully. Avoid sugary or acidic gum, limit chewing time and never replace it with daily oral hygiene.
It is not an alternative to toothbrushing and dental floss, but it can be a complement if used correctly, for example after meals or when you don’t have the opportunity to brush your teeth.
FAQ
Is chewing gum bad for your teeth?
It depends on the type of rubber. Sugary ones promote tooth decay; sugar-free ones can help protect your teeth.
What is the best chewing gum for teeth?
The best are sugar free gums, possibly with xylitol and remineralizing agents.
Is it true that chewing gum can reduce plaque?
Yes, especially in the first 10 minutes. After this time, the effect is reduced.
Are gummies with fruity flavors bad for you?
Often yes, because they contain food acids that can erode enamel.