Laredo children’s dentists' teen patients blowing bubbles with colorful chewing gum

Laredo Children’s Dentists STICK with Sugar-Free Gum

September 29, 2023 8:39 pm

National Chewing Gum Day is a yearly celebration held on September 30th. Whether you call it bubble gum, chewing gum, or chicle, people of all ages indulge in the pleasure of chewing gum on this day. Our Laredo children’s dentists educate their patients on the importance of oral hygiene, and one topic that often comes up is gum and other sweet treats. However, if you’re a parent concerned about your children’s oral health and wish to protect them against tooth decay, our Laredo children’s dentists highly advise opting for sugar-free gum. By choosing sugar-free gum, you provide your children with a stronger defense against dental issues while still enjoying the delightful experience of chewing gum.

Xylitol Defined

Commonly found in sugar-free gum, xylitol is a naturally occurring sweetener. It is a sugar alcohol that tastes and looks like sugar, but it does not break down like sugar does. This means that it cannot be metabolized by bacteria in the mouth. It’s no wonder that xylitol has become a popular ingredient in sugar-free gum and other dental products.

Xylitol Gum: A Popular Anti-Cavity Treat

Xylitol stands out as a superior sugar substitute due to its exceptional oral health benefits. Furthermore, xylitol effectively fights cavities through two primary mechanisms:

Seizure of Bacteria Growth: By actively inhibiting the growth of bacteria that cause plaque, xylitol effectively prevents tooth decay and contributes to maintaining optimal oral health.
Stimulation of Saliva Production: Xylitol stimulates the production of saliva, which in turn aids in the natural cleaning and remineralization of teeth. Saliva helps to remove food particles and neutralize acidic substances, promoting a healthy oral environment and further preventing cavities.

By incorporating xylitol into your child’s daily routine, not only does sugar-free gum become a delicious treat, but it also becomes a highly effective solution for maintaining oral health.

Xylitol is Safe for Kids

Xylitol is commonly recognized as a safe substance for children. When consumed in the typical quantities found in oral health products and food, it is considered safe. It is worth noting that the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry and our Laredo children’s dentists support the use of xylitol, along with other sugar alcohols, as non-cariogenic sugar alternatives.

Chew Responsibly

According to various health organizations, the ideal dosage of xylitol for kids is recommended to be a total of 5 grams. This dosage should be divided into three to five doses. What is considered one dose of xylitol? Our Laredo children’s dentists count each chewing or toothbrushing session can be counted as one dose. For kids using xylitol gum, we suggest chewing the gum for at least five minutes.

Learn More About Cavity Prevention from Our Laredo Children’s Dentists

If you have any specific questions about xylitol for kids, or if you are looking for ways to prevent cavities in general, we highly recommend scheduling an appointment at Tots to Teens Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics. Our team of expert Laredo children’s dentists prioritizes prevention and education, ensuring that you receive the best care possible. Call (956) 758-1947 or fill out our virtual form to get in touch with our Laredo children’s dentists.

Categorised in: Pediatric Dentist

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