The production of chewing gum is carried out in accordance with the food law. This means that only those ingredients may be used which are harmless to the organism. In addition to the waxy basic mass, chewing gum contains softeners, fillers, glycerine, aromas and sweeteners.
Unfortunately, there is still chewing gum that contains sugar, but sugar-free chewing gums are on the advance, so that they already represent by far the largest proportion. These chewing gums contain either sugar substitutes or sugar substitutes. In order to get a fresh taste, chewing gum contains various flavors.
It is very beneficial if it contains xylitol, an exchange substance that conveys sweetness without being processed into acid by the oral bacteria. Depending on the consumer’s taste, different flavors such as peppermint or fruit variants are offered. Originally there was chewing gum in stripes, which is still widely used today.
Gradually, chewing gum was also offered as a lozenge, pillow or ball, especially when it can be pulled out of vending machines. Dragees, cushions and balls have a coating, but this should not contain sugar. Some chewing gums are composed in such a way that they can be inflated, a great fun especially for children.
The chewing activity stimulates saliva secretion. The saliva fulfils an important task in the prevention of caries. It contains minerals and fluorides that promote remineralization and, due to its bicarbonate content, serves as an acid buffer against harmful acids that can attack the enamel.
Studies have shown that chewing chewing gum can increase the amount of saliva by a factor of ten. Flavouring substances also play a significant role, since chewing unflavoured chewing gum produces considerably less saliva. Chewing sugar-free chewing gum therefore reduces the risk of tooth decay.
Chewing gum not only helps to prevent caries, but also eliminates dry mouth. There are drugs, especially those used in geriatric dentistry, which reduce saliva secretion. The use of chewing gum can restore normal conditions.
However, chewing gum is not a substitute for brushing your teeth with a toothbrush. Although chewing gum can be used right after meals to remove food residue if a toothbrush is not available, chewing gum cannot remove firmly adhering plaque. Further effects of using chewing gum are the elimination of heartburn by neutralizing stomach acid. Even as an aid to weight loss, chewing gum is recommended, because you cannot eat while you are chewing. For travel sickness and seasickness there is chewing gum enriched with a medicine for these ailments.
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