Your gum likely "melted" in your mouth due to the breakdown of its components by your saliva, particularly digestive enzymes.
The Role of Saliva
Saliva is crucial for oral hygiene and the initial stages of digestion. It contains various components, including:
- Water: Hydrates the mouth and helps dissolve food.
- Enzymes: Specifically, alpha-amylase (also known as ptyalin) starts breaking down starches into simpler sugars.
- Mucus: Lubricates the mouth and aids in swallowing.
How Saliva Affects Gum
When you chew gum, especially for extended periods, the constant exposure to saliva begins to affect its structure. The alpha-amylase in your saliva works to break down the gum base, which often contains starch components. This enzymatic action, combined with the warmth of your mouth, can cause the gum to soften significantly and seem like it's "melting."
The "Melting" Sensation
The "melting" sensation is actually the gum breaking down into smaller, softer pieces due to the combined effects of:
- Enzymatic Action: Alpha-amylase breaking down starches.
- Mechanical Action: Chewing physically breaks down the gum.
- Warmth: Mouth temperature facilitates the enzymatic reactions.
- Solubility: Some gum components slowly dissolve in saliva.
Gum Composition
The composition of gum also plays a role in how it breaks down. Gum typically contains:
- Gum Base: Provides the chewable texture.
- Sweeteners: Sugar or artificial sweeteners.
- Flavorings: Various natural or artificial flavors.
- Softeners: Help maintain moisture and pliability.
The gum base itself is broken down by the mouth's environment.
What Happens When You Fall Asleep with Gum?
If you fall asleep with gum in your mouth, the prolonged exposure to saliva, without active chewing, allows the digestive enzymes more time to work. This results in a significantly softer and more fragmented texture, making it seem like the gum has "melted" or disintegrated. The gum's structure becomes compromised, and it loses its cohesive properties.
