It seems the health industry wants us to chew sugar-free gum and altogether avoid food and drink with a high content of sugar. But at the same time, health experts say artificial flavoring is also bad for the health. So it can become very difficult to choose between the right thing. 

Today we are going to talk about the impact of sugar-free products on your teeth, gums, and mouth health. At Icon Dental Center, Everett, we believe that you should know the truth about what you are consuming.

Are Artificial Sweeteners Bad For Your Teeth?

• Yes, and no. Most sugar-free products are made with chemicals that are not healthy for your health or your teeth. For example, sugar-free drinks are loaded with artificial sweeteners that contain chemicals that soften your enamel. 

When the enamel starts to soften, it can easily be brushed away when you brush your teeth. This leaves the inner layer of your teeth exposed to bacteria that can cause cavities and tooth decay leading to tooth extractions. 

• At Icon Dental Center, Seattle, we always recommend avoiding drinks loaded with sugar or sweeteners and stick to water or milk for the best teeth health. If you do want to enjoy soda once in a while, whether the regular one or the diet one, make sure to brush your teeth afterward.

About Sugar-Free Gum

• Now that you are aware that sugar-free products can be just as bad for your teeth as regular products, what about gum? Here’s where things change a bit. Sugar-free gum is actually quite beneficial for your teeth, especially if you are unable to brush or floss your teeth after eating.

But keep in mind that some artificial flavors are better than others. For instance, Xylitol has been proven through research to be beneficial for your teeth health. It can help reduce tooth decay and does not damage your teeth to the extent other sweeteners do.

• So whether the sugar-free gum you eat contains Xylitol or not, chewing gum is still healthy for you because it helps rinse away acidic food from your teeth. Acid can quickly eat away enamel so it is very important to avoid acidic food or at least have something to counter the acidity afterward. 

Chewing gum also increases the production of saliva in your mouth which helps in washing away bacteria. But you need to avoid excess chewing because it can be very taxing to your jaw joint, commonly known as the Temporomandibular joint. So try your best to chew gum when only when you need it to. 

• As a thumb rule, chew gum after eating a meal because it helps in improving your dental health.

For healthier and stronger teeth, we highly recommend that you regularly brush and floss your teeth on a daily basis. You should avoid acidic food and any candy, drinks, or food made with artificial sweeteners. Comeover to one of our dental offices for a routine dental exam and cleaning to maintain good oral health.