Hello Lafayette gum chewers, today we’re going to talk about that sticky wad in your mouth. You know that it can freshen your breath, but can it really help prevent cavities? That’s the question we’re asking in today’s Lafayette dental blog.
It really depends on the type of gum. Chewing regular sucrose-based gum can help remove bits of food from the surface of teeth, but that benefit is negated by the stream of sugar washing over your teeth as you chew.
However, gums with some alternative sweeteners have an added benefit for your pearly whites. Xylitol is a sweetener which not only has fewer calories than traditional sugars, but it also has antimicrobial properties that reduce plaque buildup. This means that xylitol inhibits the growth of bacteria that causes tooth decay.
So if you’re headed out to any restaurants in the Boulder, Boulder County, or Lafayette, CO area, bring a pack of sugar-free gum with you and pop it in your mouth when your meal is done. Of course, brushing and flossing are a better option for your oral health, but when you can’t brush, choose a sugarless gum with xylitol to chew.
I’m Dr. Gordon West, a cosmetic dentist in Lafayette. I want my patients to have the best oral health possible. My practice, Gordon West DDS, Cosmetic & General Dentistry, is located at 1140 W South Boulder Rd, Ste 201.
If you have any questions about how to improve your oral health, or if you would like to learn more about any of our cosmetic dentistry procedures such as teeth whitening, veneers, and complete smile makeovers, give us a call today at 303-665-5335.
We specialize in porcelain veneers, dental implants, and prepless veneers. Call our state-of-the-art dental care in a comfortable environment staff today for an appointment!
Dr. Gordon West
Gordon West DDS, Cosmetic & General Dentistry
1140 W South Boulder Rd, Ste 201
Lafayette Colorado
303-665-5335
https://www.bouldercountysmiles.com/services/
