Together with an expert, we debunk the myths about chewing gum and figure out how not to deprive a child of the joy of blowing bubbles, but at the same time protect baby teeth from trouble.
1. Cleanses from food residues — the truth
When a child chews, acids are neutralized in the oral cavity, which are a consequence of the vital activity of bacteria. These acids are actively involved in the formation of plaque that destroys enamel. Thus, chewing gum becomes an obstacle to the formation of harmful deposits on the surface of the teeth.
2. Harmful to the stomach — it is partially true
To give a child chewing gum on an empty stomach is really impossible — the chewing process stimulates the formation of gastric juice, which aggressively affects the walls of the stomach. If this happens regularly, gastritis may develop over time. But after eating, acid is on the contrary useful — it helps the digestion of food. Therefore, it is recommended to chew gum after eating — no earlier than 10 minutes, and no later than 1-1.5 hours.
If there are problems with the gums and periodontal diseases, it is better to abandon the gum so as not to overload the parotid tissues.
3. Fillings may fall out — partially true
Yes, this can happen, but only if you chew for hours. Or if the seal was installed poorly. But then it can fall out even while eating.
4. Broken braces — the truth
But this statement is true. Due to the constant pressure, braces can begin to peel off from the tooth, there is also a risk that the arch of the bracket system will bend. In the latter case, it may start to work incorrectly, and there will be no effect from the treatment.
5. Stimulates salivation — true
The gum stimulates the salivary glands. In this case, a lot of saliva is first released, and then its deficiency develops. This phenomenon can contribute to the development of xerostomia — pathological dryness of the mucous membranes of the oral cavity.
6. Sugar contained in chewing gum spoils teeth — true
It is not so much sugar that is to be feared, as the preservatives, dyes, flavors, stabilizers and thickeners that are included in the composition — they all enter the body and have their far from positive effect.
If there are no contraindications, dentists are allowed to chew gum no more than 5 minutes a day after meals.
