The process of chewing in itself is a powerful stimulant of acidic digestive fluid. Therefore, a sugar-free chewing gum taken immediately after a meal can positively affect the process of digestion.
The habit of chewing various viscous substances is inimitable to man since ancient times. The ancient Greeks used to chew resin exuded from the bark of the mastic tree, the Maya Indians preferred for that purpose gum obtained from the relic tree sapodilla, and as for the ancient Germans — they used to chew a piece of wool soaked in honey. Then as well as nowadays, it had been done for the purpose of refreshment of the mouth, stimulation of salivation, or just for the need of chewing something.
Modern 'bubble-gums' are produced from varieties of resins, the quality of which prevents them from quick dissolving in the liquid, thus ensuring their 'long stay' inside the mouth. Moreover, they contain special additives to deliver freshness and flavour; and some brands are also enriched with certain antiseptic properties or anti-odour ingredients.
For the past few years, thanks to advertising, we've not only gotten acquainted with various kinds of chewing gum but learnt a lot about some of their preventive properties and effects on organs and tissues of our oral cavity.
However, there are some restrictions for their use, as well as side effects that may arise in case of misuse of the product. The first and foremost preventive property of chewing gum is to stimulate salivation secretion. Saliva contains antibacterial compounds as well as mineral components; ingredients that can neutralise harmful acids. It also breaks down food caught between the teeth, hence protecting them from bacteria that cause decay. That is why the intensification of saliva secretion can, to a great extent, contribute to more active withdrawal of sugar substances from the oral cavity and raising the saliva pH, as well as enhancing the re-mineralisation of teeth (restoration of the enamel crystal structure).
People suffering from xerostomia, or reduced saliva flow, can also benefit from chewing gum. This disease is related to the violation of the functions of salivary glands, side effects of received drugs, as well as chronic illnesses of the organism.
The process of chewing in itself is a powerful stimulant of acidic digestive fluid secreted by various glands in the mucous membrane of the stomach (gastric juice); therefore it is advised to avoid 'non-stop' chewing of gums, especially on empty stomach. However, if used immediately after a meal, it can positively affect digestion.
A number of sweeteners used in chewing gums have certain bactericidal properties, which help reinforce anti-carious and anti-inflammatory processes in the oral cavity. But it should be noted that chewing gum does not provide complete mechanical cleansing of the oral cavity from the remnants of food, as plaque and food particles left between the teeth and gum can be optimally removed only with the help of toothbrush and floss. That is why chewing sugar-free gum is considered to be only a part of dental hygiene, which includes complete arsenal of tooth brushes, tooth pastes, dental flosses, and mouthwashes as well as the use of solid (hard) food and regular examinations by a dentist.Another positive aspect of chewing bubble gum is an exercise for mastication muscles and stimulation of blood circulation in the gums.
Back in the '30s it was found that gum chewing increases attentiveness, removes muscular tension, sleepiness and stress. For that reason, during the Second World War it became an integral part of a ration pack of the US Army. Chewing gum is also recommended to those whose work (despite being monotonous) requires constant attention such as drivers etc. Chewing gum is also helps in relief of stress.
Today many doctors recommend chewing gum to people suffering from heartburns. Digestive process begins in the oral cavity, and unattended teeth — a hotbed of infections — can become the reason of malfunction of a number of important organs. Along with the other oral care means, sugar-free chewing gum reduces the risk of dental diseases if used systematically.
Sugar containing gums can trigger an excessive secretion of acidic substances in the mouth as a result of the splitting of carbohydrates; and the result is inevitable tooth decay. The more frequent is the use of sugar-containing gum, the more aggravated will be the carious consequences. That is why famous chewing gum producing companies manufacture their products on sugar-free or sugar-substitute basis.
Chewing gum manufactured by unqualified or uncertified companies can prove dangerous to health, as it may contain ingredients that cause allergic reactions. Poor condition of one's teeth can also be an obstacle for use of chewing gum. People suffering from periodontitis — diseases that cause loosening of the teeth or revelation of their roots should avoid using chewing gum at all or chew it occasionally.
Another unpleasant aspect to mention here is incidental swallowing of chewing gum, and as a result, accumulation of the gum mass in the large intestine section. However, soluble ingredients of a chewing gum — sweeteners and flavour additives — can be effortlessly digested by our organism. As for its insoluble base, it remains intact in the digestive tract and is automatically removed from the body after two days.
It is not recommended to give bubble gum to children under four years of age, as their reflexes responsible for coordination of chewing and swallowing processes are not properly developed.
Prejudice that chewing gum can be the reason for the fallout of teeth fillings is as much widespread as it is absurd. Well-done filling can neither be threatened by any chewing gum nor toffee. However, if while chewing gum your filling falls, it was either improperly placed, or the tooth decay progressed despite the treatment. In this case, bubble gum will definitely help identify the hidden problem so a check-up by the dentist is due.
