Hello Mt. Vernon gum chewers, today we’re going to talk about that sticky wad in your mouth. You know that it can freshen your breath, but can it really help prevent cavities? That’s the question we’re asking in today’s Mt. Vernon family dentistry blog.
It really depends on the type of gum. Chewing regular sucrose-based gum can help remove bits of food from the surface of teeth, but that benefit is negated by the stream of sugar washing over your teeth as you chew.
However, gums with some alternative sweeteners have an added benefit for your pearly whites. Xylitol is a sweetener which not only has fewer calories than traditional sugars, but it also has antimicrobial properties that reduce plaque buildup. This means that xylitol inhibits the growth of bacteria that causes tooth decay.
So if you’re headed out to any restaurants in the Mt. Vernon area, bring a pack of sugar-free gum with you and pop it in your mouth when your meal is done. Of course, brushing and flossing are a better option for your oral health, but when you can’t brush, choose a sugarless gum with xylitol to chew.
I’m Dr. James D. Geren, a cosmetic dentist near Mt. Vernon. I want my patients to have the best oral health possible. My practice, Mt. Vernon Center for Dentistry, is located at 8101 Hinson Farm Rd Ste 114.
If you have any questions about how to improve your oral health, or if you would like to learn more about any of our cosmetic dentistry procedures such as teeth whitening, veneers, and complete smile makeovers, give us a call today at 703-360-5881.
We specialize in cosmetic dentistry, sedation dentistry, and dental implants. Call our continuing education staff today for an appointment!
Dr. James D. Geren
Mt. Vernon Center for Dentistry
8101 Hinson Farm Rd Ste 114
Alexandria VA
703-360-5881
https://www.cosmeticdentistalexandria.com/about-us/about-dr-geren/
