The question has flustered parents, teachers, and children
alike for ages—is chewing gum good or bad for a child’s dental health? The
habit can undoubtedly be annoying for adults chaperoning groups of gum-chewing
children, but whether or not its detrimental to a child’s smile is a
complicated question. Some additives, excessive chewing, and a lack of good
dental hygiene can make chewing gum a risk, but some types of gum can benefit
your child’s natural mouth defenses when chewed in moderation.
Choose the Right Gum
Considered by itself, the act of chewing something
edible is beneficial for a number of reasons. The stimulation helps maintain a
steady supply of nutrient-rich blood to the jawbone. Chewing also promotes a
steady production of saliva, which can help clean your mouth after eating a
meal or snack. Made almost entirely of water (over 99%), saliva is your mouth’s
natural defense against oral bacteria and the tooth-eroding acids they produce. The
sugar in many gum brands can feed these germs, increasing acid production and
negating the benefits of increased saliva. Sugarless gum eliminates that risk, and many kinds of chewing gum now
contain Xylitol, a naturally-occurring sweetener found in fruits and vegetables
that inhibits the growth of cavity-causing bacteria.
Kids Who SHOULDN’T Chew Gum
Reducing the sugar content of chewing gum helps eliminate
the increased risk of cavities, but tooth decay isn’t the only complication
that can arise from the habit. Children who wear orthodontic braces, or who
exhibit symptoms of TMJ disorder (a jaw joint dysfunction), should refrain from
the sticky treat. Chewing gum can stick to and damage the brackets and wires of
your child’s braces. Constant chewing can exacerbate the symptoms of TMJ
disorder, leading to more frequent headaches and migraines, as well as jaw pain
and facial soreness. If your child hasn’t been diagnosed with TMJ disorder, but
complains of chronic aches and pains that might indicate a jaw problem, then
visit Dr. Smith as soon as possible for an evaluation.
About Your Grand Prairie Children’s Dentist:
Dr. Quinn Smith is a well-respected and highly experienced family
and children’s dentist in Grand Prairie, TX. He takes a patient-first approach
that starts from the moment patients enter our Park Tree Dental office, and he
offers a three-year guarantee on all dental work that he performs. Whether
you’re a new or returning patient, you can schedule a consultation or your next
appointment with Dr. Smith by contacting
us at (972) 262-5111.
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