Chewing gum in various forms has been around since ancient times. The Greeks
chewed sap from the mastic tree, called mastiche. On the other side of the
world, the ancient Mayans favored the sap of the sapodilla tree (called
tsiclte). Native Americans from New England chewed spruce sap—a habit they
passed on to European settlers. Today, the base used for most gum products is a
blend of synthetic materials (elastomeres, resins and waxes in various
proportions). However, chewing gum is as popular as ever.
Consumers may be used to thinking about chewing
gum as a kind of candy, but this category of the ADA Seal recognizes chewing gum
that has demonstrated scientifically that it can protect the teeth.
For an
informative article on the history of chewing gum, visit
http://pubs.acs.org/cen/whatstuff/85/8532sci2.html (Link
opens in separate window. Pop-up Blocker may need to be disabled.)
The physical act of chewing increases the flow
of saliva in your mouth. If you chew after eating, the increased salivary flow
can help neutralize and wash away the acids that are produced when food is
broken down by the bacteria in plaque on your teeth. Over time, acid can break
down tooth enamel, creating the conditions for decay. Increased saliva flow also
carries with it more calcium and phosphate to help strengthen tooth enamel.
Clinical studies have shown that chewing sugarless gum for 20 minutes following
meals can help prevent tooth decay.
Find out more information on other interesting
oral health topics, please visit our website or
Call our friendly staff to schedule an appointment at (305)385-5555
or visit our website at www.BlochDentistry.com.
We want to see you smile!
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