Is Chewing Gum an Option with Sensitive Teeth?

If you have sensitive teeth, it is likely due to exposed roots or worn tooth enamel. Tooth discomfort may also be caused by chipped or cracked teeth, cavities, gum disease, or loss of a tooth filling(s).

Having sensitive teeth may discourage you from chewing gum, as many people with sensitive teeth find this really painful. This causes a problem when you need to freshen up your mouth after a meal, or before interacting with people, such as at work or on a date.

There is good news though! Your sensitive teeth don’t have to get in your way of chewing gum. You simply just have to choose gum with the RIGHT type of sweetener and stay away from gum full of sugar (which isn’t good for your dental health anyways).

Choose a gum with Xylitol. It can help with your tooth sensitivity, as well as improve your oral health because it also helps keep bacteria to a minimum. Unlike sugar, the bacteria in your mouth cannot use Xylitol sweetener to grow or multiply. Less bacteria = less acid.

The pH levels in your mouth drop when you eat, as the acid levels rise. Your saliva normally corrects the imbalance and retains the minerals that acid can dissolve. If the level of acid was to remain high, those minerals wouldn’t have a change to redeposit on your teeth. So, the great thing about chewing Xylitol gum, is that it helps stimulate saliva flow. This, in turn, helps to correct the pH level in your mouth to protect your enamel.

Pretty fascinating stuff, right?

So next time you are at the convenience store looking for a pack of gum, check the ingredients for Xylitol and you’ll be able to chew worry-free!

You may also be interested in reading more about the Top Reasons You May Have Sensitive Teeth.

Are you and your family due for a dental visit? Call our Surrey dentist office to book today: 604-593-8201