Chewing sugar-free Orbit gum can be beneficial for your teeth, but it's not a replacement for brushing and flossing.
How Orbit Benefits Teeth
The American Dental Association (ADA) supports sugar-free Orbit gum because chewing it for 20 minutes after eating stimulates saliva production. Increased saliva flow helps neutralize plaque acids, reducing the risk of cavities and strengthening teeth. Source: ADA Seal of Acceptance for Orbit Sugarfree Gum. This is because increased saliva helps to raise the pH of your mouth, making it less acidic and therefore less conducive to tooth decay. Source: Quora - Is chewing Orbit sugar free gum helpful for teeth? Additionally, studies suggest that chewing gum with sorbitol, like Orbit, may offer indirect benefits in strengthening teeth. Source: NPR - Gum: A Stick A Day May Keep The Dentist Away
Important Considerations
- Sugar-Free is Key: The benefits apply only to sugar-free gum. Sugary gum promotes tooth decay. Source: Healthline - Chewing Gum: Good or Bad?
- Not a Replacement for Brushing: Chewing gum is a supplement, not a substitute, for proper oral hygiene. Brushing and flossing remain essential.
- Xylitol's Role: Some sugar-free gums, including some Orbit varieties, contain xylitol, which is known to inhibit the growth of cavity-causing bacteria. However, xylitol is toxic to dogs. Source: Reddit - TIL The American Dental Association supports chewing sugarless gum
In summary:
Sugar-free Orbit gum, when chewed for 20 minutes after meals, can contribute to better oral health by stimulating saliva and neutralizing acids, thus helping prevent cavities. However, it’s crucial to maintain a consistent oral hygiene routine of brushing and flossing.
