### What is Chewing Gum Made Of and How Does It Affect Your Dental Health? Chewing gum has evolved from ancient practices where Greeks chewed sap from the mastic tree to modern-day synthetic versions. Today’s chewing gum is often made from a combination of gum base, sweeteners, softeners, flavorings, and sometimes colorings. #### Ingredients: - **Gum Base**: This is the non-digestible part that gives gum its chewy texture. It can be made from natural latex or synthetic rubbers. - **Sweeteners**: These can be sugars like sucrose or sugar alcohols like xylitol and sorbitol. Sugar-free gums use less than 0.5 grams of sugar per serving. - **Softeners**: Ingredients like glycerin or vegetable oil keep the gum moist. - **Flavorings**: These can be natural or artificial and give the gum its taste. - **Colorings**: Sometimes added to make the gum more visually appealing. #### Impact on Dental Health: - **Sugary Gum**: If your gum contains sugar, it can increase the risk of tooth decay. Bacteria in your mouth metabolize the sugar, producing acids that erode tooth enamel. - **Sugar-Free Gum**: This type of gum is less harmful to your teeth. It often contains sweeteners like xylitol, which can reduce plaque buildup. - **Saliva Production**: Chewing gum stimulates saliva production, which helps neutralize acids and wash away food particles and bacteria. This can protect against tooth decay and erosion. - **Acid Reflux**: Increased saliva can also help balance acids in your esophagus, easing symptoms of acid reflux and GERD. - **Dry Mouth**: Chewing gum can temporarily relieve dry mouth by stimulating saliva flow. #### Choosing the Right Gum: - Look for gums with the American Dental Association (ADA) seal of approval. These gums are sugar-free and have been verified by scientists to be safe for your teeth. - Remember, chewing gum should not replace regular brushing, flossing, and dental cleanings. #### Alternative Options: - **Xanthan Gum**: If you’re looking for something else to chew, xanthan gum is a microbial polysaccharide with a similar chewy consistency. It’s often used as a food additive to improve texture. Always maintain good oral hygiene practices to ensure the best dental health.