Is Extra Gum Good?
Extra gum's impact on your health depends entirely on the type you choose. Sugar-free Extra gum offers several benefits, while sugary varieties pose risks.
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Increased Saliva Production: Chewing sugar-free Extra gum stimulates saliva production. This is beneficial because saliva acts as a natural defense mechanism for your teeth, helping to neutralize acids and protect against tooth decay. Multiple sources, including Extra Gum's official website (https://www.extragum.com.au/benefits-gum) and independent studies (http://theconversation.com/health-check-is-chewing-gum-actually-good-for-your-teeth-51555), highlight this key advantage. The increased saliva production, when chewing for 20 minutes after eating or drinking, helps maintain oral health.
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Neutral Effect on Health: As noted on Quora (https://www.quora.com/Is-Extra-sugar-free-gum-healthy), sugar-free Extra gum doesn't significantly harm or improve your health; it's essentially neutral. The primary benefit lies in the absence of sugar and the resulting saliva stimulation.
Sugary Extra Gum: The Risks
- Increased Risk of Tooth Decay: Conversely, regularly chewing sugar-containing gum increases your risk of developing dental caries (tooth decay) (http://theconversation.com/health-check-is-chewing-gum-actually-good-for-your-teeth-51555). The sugar feeds bacteria in your mouth, leading to acid production that erodes tooth enamel.
Conclusion: Choosing the Right Extra Gum
The "goodness" of Extra gum hinges on its sugar content. Opt for sugar-free varieties to reap the benefits of increased saliva production and a neutral impact on your health. Avoid sugary options to prevent the risk of tooth decay.
