Chewing gum is often seen as a refreshing snack, but the habit of chewing gum can have various effects on dental health. A study by Rizki Nurcahyanti, a student at the Faculty of Dentistry, Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), under the guidance of drg. Emut Lukito, SU., Sp.KGA(K), and Prof. Dr. drg. Al Supartinah, SU., Sp.KGA(K), titled The Effect of Chewing Duration of Xylitol Chewing Gum on Dental Plaque Growth in Children Aged 10–12 Years (A Review Based on Chewing Duration of 2.5 Minutes, 5 Minutes, and 10 Minutes), found that the duration of chewing xylitol gum significantly affects plaque growth. This opens up discussion on how this habit can influence overall dental health.
Types of Chewing Gum
One key factor in how chewing gum affects dental health is the type of gum consumed:
- Xylitol Chewing Gum: Gum containing xylitol is known to have positive effects on oral health. Xylitol is a natural sweetener that can help prevent the growth of bacteria that cause tooth decay and reduce plaque buildup.
- Sugar-Based Chewing Gum: In contrast, gum that contains sugar can increase the risk of cavities. Sugar feeds bacteria in the mouth, which can produce acids that damage tooth enamel.
Benefits of Chewing Gum
Chewing gum—especially those with xylitol—can offer several dental health benefits:
- Increasing Saliva Production: Chewing gum stimulates saliva production, which helps wash away food particles and neutralize acids in the mouth. Saliva also contains minerals that help strengthen tooth enamel.
- Preventing Plaque Growth: Research shows that chewing xylitol gum can reduce plaque growth, particularly with regular use. This can be an effective preventive measure for both children and adults.
Optimal Chewing Duration
The aforementioned study also states that the duration of gum chewing influences its effectiveness in preventing plaque buildup. Recommended durations are:
- 2.5 Minutes: While mildly beneficial, this duration may not be sufficient for significant effects.
- 5 MinuetsThis duration offers optimal benefits from the xylitol in chewing gum.
- 10 Minutes: The most effective time in reducing plaque growth, based on the study's findings.
Potential Risks
While chewing gum can provide benefits, some risks should be considered:
- Sugar Addiction: Chewing sugar-containing gum can lead to high sugar consumption habits, which is harmful to dental health.
- Digestive Issues: Excessive gum chewing may lead to digestive problems such as gas or bloating.
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The habit of chewing gum—particularly xylitol gum—can provide benefits to dental health by reducing plaque buildup and increasing saliva production. However, it’s important to choose the right type of gum and pay attention to chewing duration to maximize its benefits. As part of good oral care habits, chewing gum can be a pleasant and healthy addition when done wisely.
References
Rizki Nurcahyanti, drg. Emut Lukito, SU., Sp.KGA(K); Prof. Dr. drg. Al Supartinah, SU., Sp.KGA(K), The Effect of Chewing Duration of Xylitol Chewing Gum on Dental Plaque Growth in Children Aged 10–12 Years (A Review Based on Chewing Duration of 2.5 Minutes, 5 Minutes, and 10 Minutes), https://etd.repository.ugm.ac.id/penelitian/detail/96684
Author: Rizky B. Hendrawan | Photo: Freepik
