Chewing gum can either promote cavities or protect against them, depending on the variety used. Several clinical studies have found that chewing sugarless gum after snacks and meals can protect against tooth decay. To reap the full cavity-fighting benefits of gum, though, there are a few things you should know.

So, how exactly does chewing gum—a favorite among children—prevent tooth decay? Chewing gum triggers the saliva glands in the mouth, which subsequently rinses out bacteria-ridden food and debris while neutralizing germs. Those small pieces of food left in the back of your mouth from your most recent meal may seem harmless enough, but they can harbor millions of decay-causing germs. Chomping down a piece of sugarless chewing gum will promote more saliva in your mouth to wash away this food debris.

Certain varieties of sugarless chewing gum also contain chemicals which neutralize cavity-causing bacteria in the mouth, adding another barrier of defense against tooth decay. Aspartame, xylitol, sorbitol, and mannitol are some of the most common ingredients used in sugarless gum. (more…)

More than 35 million children participate in some type of sport each year. Whether it’s football, baseball, softball, soccer, lacrosse, etc., playing sports is a fun and rewarding experience that helps children develop social skills while keeping them physically fit. However, certain types of sports can leave children vulnerable to tooth loss, gum damage, and tongue injury when precautions are not taken.

A mouthguard is simple piece of plastic that plays an important role in protecting young athletes from tooth loss and mouth injury. Also referred to as mouth protectors, they are designed to fit in between the upper and bottom teeth. When the child bites down on the mouthguard, it offers greater stability and protection against blows to the mouth. (more…)

Do you frequently experience sudden, sharp pain in your teeth when drinking hot beverages such as coffee, tea or hot chocolate, or when eating ice cream, chilled fruit, frozen yogurt or other cold foods?

Tooth sensitivity (known medically as dentin hypersensitivity) is an all-too-common condition that affects upwards of 15% of the general population to some degree. Although it doesn’t pose any direct threat to a person’s health, it may cause noticeable discomfort and even pain depending on the severity of the condition.

Tooth sensitivity pain is typically triggered by one of the following:

• Hot or cold foods
• Hot or cold beverages
• Electric pulp test
• Dental probing during examinations or treatments
• Sugar
• Acids

Common Causes of Tooth Sensitivity

The leading cause of tooth sensitivity is gum recession. As the gums recede towards the jawbone, root surfaces of the teeth are left exposed and vulnerable to the elements. The protective enamel is thinner around the roots; thus creating greater sensitivity when this area is exposed. (more…)