Chewing Gum and Gum Disease

Can chewing gum prevent gum disease? If you've watched TV anytime lately, you'll find that there are tons of commercials promoting gum and it's effects on health. What once started out as a candy has evolved now to something that "if eaten 4 times a day" can effectively whiten teeth. That quote comes from Trident.com. Trident, is the only over the counter gum approved by the ADA for improving oral health. Depending on the brand of Trident you chew, you can whiten and brighten your teeth, or (with their new brand) restore tooth enamel. The most important thing to note here is that this doesn't go for all gum. Gum is still a candy and, if it contains sugar, can do damage to teeth. The active ingredients of traditional gum may cause tooth decay and cavities. Chewing gum that is good for your oral health is the way to go. There's no difference in taste... in fact, why not chew the good kind of gum, it's certain to taste just as good AND improve your breath at the same time!