It depends on the kind of gum — and how you chew it.
Chewing gum has a bit of a reputation — some think it’s harmful, others chew it daily for fresh breath. So what’s the real story?
The truth is: chewing gum can be both helpful and harmful, depending on what type you choose and how often you chew it. Here’s what you need to know to protect your teeth and make the right choice for your smile.
✅ The Benefits of Sugar-Free Gum
If you choose the right kind, chewing gum can actually be good for your teeth!
✔️ Stimulates Saliva Flow
Chewing boosts saliva production, which helps:
- Rinse away food particles and acids
- Neutralize plaque acids
- Strengthen enamel with natural minerals
- Prevent dry mouth (a common cause of bad breath and decay)
✔️ Reduces Risk of Cavities
Chewing sugar-free gum after meals — especially those with xylitol — has been shown to reduce cavity risk by:
- Inhibiting cavity-causing bacteria
- Slowing plaque buildup
🟢 The Canadian Dental Association (CDA) even gives its Seal of Recognition to some sugar-free gums that meet safety and effectiveness standards.
⚠️ When Gum Can Be Harmful
Not all gum is created equal. Gum can be harmful if:
❌ It Contains Sugar
Chewing regular gum with sugar feeds the bacteria that cause tooth decay. Even short-term chewing can expose your teeth to repeated acid attacks.
❌ It’s Chewed Excessively
Chewing gum all day can strain your jaw joints, leading to TMJ pain, headaches, or jaw fatigue — especially if you already have bite or alignment issues.
❌ You Have Braces or Certain Dental Work
Gum can stick to brackets, wires, or dental appliances, increasing your risk of damage or making cleaning more difficult. If you have braces, ask your orthodontist before chewing any gum.
🛍️ How to Choose the Right Gum
When shopping for gum, look for:
- ✅ Sugar-free on the label
- ✅ Xylitol as a sweetener (shown to reduce cavity-causing bacteria)
- ✅ The CDA Seal of Recognition, which indicates it meets oral health standards
🚫 Avoid “natural” or “organic” gums that still contain sugar or sticky syrups.
Brands like PUR, Trident, or Excel offer sugar-free options commonly available across Canada.
🪥 Chewing Gum ≠ Brushing Your Teeth
While sugar-free gum is a great complement to your oral care routine, it’s not a replacement for brushing and flossing.
You should still:
- Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste
- Floss once a day
- Visit your dentist every 6 months for checkups and cleanings
🦷 Final Thoughts
So, is chewing gum good or bad for your teeth?
👉 Sugar-free gum in moderation can be a healthy habit — just avoid sugary varieties and don’t overdo it.
Curious if chewing gum fits into your oral care routine? Book your next dental check-up — we’ll give you personalized tips to keep your teeth strong, clean, and cavity-free.