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Journalism of Courage
In the quest for maintaining optimal dental health, we often encounter various claims and advice — some of which can be contradictory or misleading. One such notion is the idea that constant chewing, especially on gum or other edibles, can degrade dental health. But is this a myth or a fact? Let’s delve into the science behind it.
Many people believe that consistent chewing can wear down the enamel, promote cavities, and lead to jaw-related issues. The logic seems reasonable – continuous chewing exposes teeth to increased friction and contact with food particles, potentially causing harm over time.
While there is some truth to the concerns, the overall impact of constant chewing on dental health is more nuanced than a straightforward myth, explained Dr Nirali Patel, a dental surgeon and oral implantologist.
“Chewing itself is a natural and essential function that helps break down food, initiate digestion, and stimulate saliva production – a crucial factor in maintaining healthy teeth and gums,” Dr Patel told indianexpress.com.
Continuous chewing can strain the muscles and joints in your jaw, potentially leading
to discomfort or temporomandibular joint (TMJ) issues, said Dr Karishma Jaradi, head dental surgeon – Dentzz Dental. “TMJ disorders can cause jaw pain, headaches, and difficulty in opening and closing the mouth. Often to relieve stress, people have a habit to chew, especially on hard objects like ice, pens, or hard candies, which can lead to excessive tooth wear. The enamel on the teeth becomes thinner, which may increase the risk of cavities and tooth sensitivity,” said Dr Jaradi.
For individuals with braces or other orthodontic appliances, constant chewing on hard or sticky
foods can damage the brackets and wires, prolonging treatment time and potentially causing
discomfort, noted Dr Jaradi.
Chewing on sugary or acidic substances for prolonged periods, like candies or citrus fruits, can
increase the risk of tooth decay. “Additionally, constantly chewing on high-calorie foods could
contribute to weight gain and other issues. If you have dental restorations like fillings, crowns, or
bridges, excessive chewing on hard foods can potentially damage or dislodge the restorations,” said Dr Jaradi.
The key lies in moderation and the type of substance being chewed. “Chewing gum that contains sugar can indeed contribute to dental problems. The sugar provides a feast for harmful bacteria in the mouth, leading to acid production and an increased risk of cavities. On the other hand, sugar-free gum can have some benefits. Chewing sugar-free gum can help dislodge food particles, increase saliva flow, and aid in neutralising acids,” mentioned Dr Patel.
What to do for dental well-being?
To strike the right balance, consider the following tips from Dr Patel:
Choose wisely: Opt for sugar-free gum or dental-approved chewing aids that promote saliva production without the negative effects of sugar.
Moderation is key: While chewing can have benefits, excessive chewing can strain jaw muscles and potentially lead to temporomandibular joint (TMJ) issues. “Enjoy chewing in moderation,” said Dr Patel.
Maintain oral hygiene: Regardless of chewing habits, regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups remain crucial for overall dental health.
Diet matters: A balanced diet plays a significant role in dental health. Limit sugary snacks and beverages to reduce the risk of cavities, said Dr Patel.
Concluding, Dr Patel said that the notion that constant chewing always degrades dental health is more of a myth than an absolute fact. “The key lies in making informed choices and practising moderation. Stay informed, and consult your dentist for personalised advice,” said Dr Patel, adding that good oral hygiene practices are also recommended.
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