We all know that sweets aren’t good for our teeth. The sugar can cause cavities, and they candies themselves are usually too hard or chewy to be safe for the enamel. But what about gums and mints? Those always seem like a gray area. Are they candy? Are they bad for teeth? Turns out there are some ways to enjoy gum and mints that is still healthy for your teeth.
Good Gum
You might have heard that chewing gum can be good for your oral health. It stimulates the production of saliva, which helps clear out food particles and keeps bacteria at bay. The important thing is to make sure you choose a sugar-free variety. Otherwise, you’re clearing out one bad thing – food particles – and replacing it with another – sugar. If you’re trying to chew gum to improve your dental health, try a gum like Epic Dental 100% Xylitol sweetened gum. Xylitol is a naturally occurring sweetener, so gums that contain that instead of sugar are already on the right track. Another benefit: Xylitol might actually reduce the amount of cavity-causing bacteria in your mouth.
Mighty Mints
Those mints set out by the door on your way out of a restaurant are awfully tempting. You’ve just eaten and want to freshen your breath with a peppermint or spearmint flavored sweet. It’s small and harmless, right? Actually, most of these are coated in sugar, so they’re not so great for your dental health. But don’t worry, there are mints out there that are healthy for your teeth! Epic Dental also makes Xylitol mints, so you can enjoy fresher breath without worrying about the sugar content. Like chewing gum, mints stimulate saliva production to clean out your mouth and get rid of harmful bacteria. So if you’re able to get your hands on sugar-free or Xylitol mints, we say pop one in after meals!
Would you like to learn more about gum and mints that are healthy for your teeth? Ask our team at your next appointment.
We make sure each and every one of our clients’ needs and concerns are addressed in a caring and thoughtful manner. We want your experience to be as enjoyable and efficient as possible here at North Tonawanda Family Dentistry in North Tonawanda, NY.