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Chewing Gum and Kids’ Dental Health: A Sweet Habit That’s Actually Good for Teeth Philadelphia, PA

Chewing Gum and Kids’ Dental Health: A Sweet Habit That’s Actually Good for Teeth

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When it comes to your child’s dental health, the idea of chewing gum might sound like a no-go, especially if you’re picturing sugary varieties that stick to teeth and cause cavities. But not all gum is created equal! Sugarless gum can actually have surprising benefits for your child’s oral health when enjoyed in moderation. At The Pediatric Dental Team in Philadelphia, we encourage families to learn how this simple habit can support a healthy smile.

Sugarless Gum: A Smile-Friendly Option

Chewing sugarless gum, especially after meals, can help protect your child’s teeth by stimulating saliva production. Saliva is a natural defense against tooth decay as it:

  • Neutralizes Acid: Saliva helps wash away food particles and neutralize acids produced by bacteria after eating.
  • Strengthens Enamel: Saliva contains minerals like calcium and phosphate that strengthen tooth enamel, reducing the risk of cavities.
  • Cleans Teeth: Increased saliva flow helps clean teeth by flushing away debris and bacteria.

For these reasons, the American Dental Association (ADA) has endorsed certain sugarless gums for their oral health benefits.

The Key Ingredient: Xylitol

Many sugarless gums contain xylitol, a natural sweetener that does more than replace sugar. Xylitol has been shown to inhibit the growth of cavity-causing bacteria. According to research published in the Journal of Dental Research, xylitol reduces the bacteria’s ability to stick to teeth, which helps lower the risk of cavities over time.

When to Introduce Chewing Gum to Your Child

It’s important to ensure your child is old enough to chew gum safely before incorporating it into their routine. We generally recommend sugarless gum for children aged 5 or older, once they can understand the importance of chewing responsibly and not swallowing gum.

Tips for Parents: Making Gum a Healthy Habit

  1. Choose ADA-Approved Brands: Look for gums with the ADA Seal of Acceptance, indicating they meet high standards for dental health benefits.
  2. Limit Sugar-Containing Gum: Stick to sugarless gum to avoid unnecessary exposure to cavity-causing sugars.
  3. Chew in Moderation: Encourage gum-chewing for about 20 minutes after meals to boost saliva production without overdoing it.
  4. Maintain Routine Dental Care: Gum is not a substitute for brushing and flossing. Make sure your child maintains a solid oral hygiene routine and regular dental checkups.

What to Avoid

While sugarless gum has benefits, not all gum is created equal. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid:

  • Sticky Gum: Some gum can adhere to dental work like braces or fillings, causing damage.
  • Overuse: Excessive gum-chewing may lead to jaw discomfort or issues with the temporomandibular joint (TMJ).
  • Sugary Gum: Sugary varieties feed harmful bacteria in the mouth, increasing the risk of cavities.

How The Pediatric Dental Team in Philadelphia Can Help

At The Pediatric Dental Team, we’re passionate about helping kids develop healthy habits that last a lifetime. We educate families on how to make smart choices for their children’s oral health, including how sugarless gum can be a fun and beneficial addition to their dental care routine.

FAQs About Chewing Gum and Kids

  • Is gum a replacement for brushing and flossing?
    No, sugarless gum complements brushing and flossing but doesn’t replace them. It’s an additional tool to support oral health, especially after meals.
  • What if my child swallows gum?
    Swallowing a small amount of gum is generally harmless. However, ensure your child knows to chew responsibly and not swallow gum intentionally.
  • Can kids with braces chew gum?
    Children with braces should avoid gum, as it can stick to brackets and wires, causing damage.

Sweeten Your Child’s Smile with Expert Care

Chewing sugarless gum can be a great addition to your child’s dental routine when used correctly. At The Pediatric Dental Team in Philadelphia, we’re here to guide you through every step of your child’s oral health journey. Contact us today to schedule a visit and learn more about how to keep your child’s smile healthy and bright!

Posted on behalf of Pediatric Dental Team

2010 South Juniper Street
Philadelphia, PA 19148

Phone: 215-334-3490

Mon: 8:00AM – 4:30PM
Tues: 8:00AM – 4:30PM
Wed: 8:00AM – 4:30PM
Thu: 8:00AM – 4:30PM
Fri: 8:00AM – 1:00PM

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Address

2010 South Juniper Street
Philadelphia, PA 19148

Phone

215-334-3490

Opening Hours

Mon: 8:00AM – 4:30PM
Tues: 8:00AM – 4:30PM
Wed: 8:00AM – 4:30PM
Thu: 8:00AM – 4:30PM
Fri: 8:00AM – 1:00PM

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