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Is Chewing Gum Bad for Your Teeth?, Marietta

Is Chewing Gum Bad for Your Teeth?

Chewing Gum

Chewing gum can have its benefits, but it also has its downfalls. Since not all gum is created equal you really should know what you’re getting yourself into the next time you decide to just pop any stick of gum in your mouth.

What Kind of Gum To Avoid
Some gum contains a lot of sugar, which is bad for your teeth because it attracts bad bacteria, feeds plaque, creates acid, and leads to an uptick in cavities.

What Kind of Gum Should You Chew?
Xylitol is a natural sweetener that is often found in “sugar-free” gum. Xylitol works opposite from sugar, starving bad oral bacteria, reducing plaque buildup and helping to prevent tooth decay.

Sugarless gum can also help produce more saliva, which can flush away bacteria for people who suffer from chronic dry mouth.

Who Should Avoid Gum?
Gum can take a lot of muscles to chew. If you have TMJ or jaw pain, chewing gum isn’t recommended because it can make your symptoms worse.  Chewing gum, even if it’s just for a few minutes, can easily lead to TMJ or headache flareups.

If you want to enjoy the benefits of xylitol but chewing gum isn’t a good option, you may want to consider lozenges or sprays instead. You can typically buy them at local health food stores.

To Chew or Not To Chew
The next time you reach for your favorite gum at the checkout line, be sure to read the label. You want to make sure you’re doing right by your teeth.

For more tips on how to maintain healthy teeth and gums, visit the professional and friendly staff of Dental Care Center at Kennestone today.

Posted on behalf of Dental Care Center at Kennestone

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Our Client Reviews

Dental Care Center at Kennestone

4.8 / 5.0

Based on 247 reviews

  • I absolutely love this dental experience. I used to dread having to make dental trips but since finding this office 4 years ago that took the dread away. From making the appointment, to visiting with the office staff. It's great. The Hygienist is very friendly. But that Dr. O,
    she is a ray of sunshine. Perfect bedside manner, concerning, caring, helpful, and so very positive. I do not have dental insurance and could go somewhere else that may be a tad cheaper but I wouldn't trade this dental office for the world. They feel more like family. Give them a try you won't regret it!

    Angie W.
  • I am very happy I came to this dental office! I tend to avoid going to the dentist because of past experiences, but my visit today was 10/10!! The dental hygienist, Kelly, and Dr. Buffington were so nice and thorough. I highly recommend! So happy I found a good and nice dental office finally!! :)

    Olivia
  • Always a great experience when I come in for cleanings or any work that has to be done. Special thanks to my hygienist Kelli for a good cleaning today and making me feel comfortable. Dr. Buffington is also terrific and very attentive. The entire staff will make you feel welcome and comfortable.

    Mark P.
  • I have been a patient here for many years. I’ve always had positive experiences. I especially like the Dental Hygenist “Callie”. She is just the best, always smiling and cheerful, just what you need at the Dentist. She is very experienced and I’ve learned a lot from her. All the Staff is very nice and polite and Dr Buffington is great also. I’ve had a lot of dental work done by her and never had a problem. She is very gentle and painless too!

    Nancy M.
  • The dentist, Dr. Buffington, hygienist, and staff were professional and efficient. Dr. Buffington provided an excellent explanation to my question so that I understood the situation. High recommend this dental practice.

    Don S.
  • Dr. Buffington has to be the kindest, most patient dentist in the world. The staff is amazingly attentive, non-judgemental and offers a very comforting experience. I appreciate how patient they are with me, a 44-year old that still cries and would rather give birth (without medication) than have dental work. I hope you catch my drift😉

    Adriennes B.
  • I really like Dr. Buffington. She gave me a plan that gives me hope about a TMJ issue. Everyone on the staff was professional and seemed genuinely caring. I would highly recommend the office.

    It’s a warm and welcoming atmosphere, and they don’t try to sell you on things you don’t need.

    Donna D.
  • I highly recommend this dental practice. They took prompt and amazing care of me to address a TMJ episode. Dr. Buffington and all employees I encountered were professional, friendly, caring and knowledgeable. They set me on the path of recovery and have earned my respect and business going forward. How refreshing to engage with a business that truly understands customer service.

    Ronni P.