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Why chewing gum is good for your teeth

Chewing sugar free gum is believed to stimulate the production of saliva, which can have several benefits for oral health. When you chew gum, it sends a signal to your salivary glands to produce more saliva.

This increase in saliva production can help to:

  1. Neutralise acids: Saliva contains bicarbonate, which can help to neutralise the acid produced by bacteria in the mouth. This can help to prevent tooth decay and erosion.

  2. Wash away food particles: Saliva can help to wash away food particles and bacteria that may be lingering in the mouth, which can also help to prevent tooth decay and bad breath.

  3. Promote remineralisation: Saliva contains minerals like calcium and phosphate, which can help to strengthen tooth enamel and promote remineralisation.

In addition, chewing gum can also help to freshen breath and reduce dry mouth, which can be uncomfortable and increase the risk of dental problems. However, it's important to choose sugar-free gum, as sugar promotes tooth decay.