The ADA has just put out a bulletin stating that sugar-free gum may contribute to oral health. Gum chewing, especially right after meals, has long been known to help remove food particles, and well as stimulate saliva production- both of which help reduce decay risk. A recent study has also found that the gum trapped "up to 100 million bacteria per piece," which is about the same amount of bacteria removed from a good flossing." Of course gum chewing is not a substitute for flossing, but these results were still notable!
There are many sugar-free gums out there, and many now are labeled with the ADA Seal of Acceptance. Our office highly recommends choosing a sugar-free gum whose main sweetener is xylitol, which is a sugar alcohol derived from birch trees and other plants. This sweetener is naturally anti-cavity and helps reduce the acid production that normally occurs after eating carbohydrate-rich foods. One of the brands we promote is SPRY, which makes non-GMO xylitol products, ranging from gums to toothpastes.
Please feel free to call us if you have any additional questions regarding the use of sugar-free gum in your oral hygiene regimen. And happy chewing!