Most parents believe chewing gum is always bad for their children's teeth, but this isn't necessarily true. When chosen wisely, gum can actually offer oral health benefits. The secret lies in the ingredients. The healthiest gum for kids is sugar-free, naturally sweetened, and contains specific ingredients that promote oral hygiene. This guide will walk you through the factors to consider when selecting gum for your child.
The Power of Xylitol: A Tooth-Friendly Sweetener
For pediatric dentists, xylitol is the star ingredient in healthy gum for kids. Unlike sugar, which feeds harmful bacteria in the mouth, xylitol actively fights them. Here's how it works:
- Starves Bad Bacteria: Streptococcus mutans, the primary bacteria responsible for tooth decay, cannot process xylitol. When they attempt to, they expend energy and cannot produce the corrosive acid that erodes tooth enamel. This ultimately starves the bacteria, reducing their population in the mouth.
- Increases Saliva Flow: Chewing gum naturally stimulates saliva production. Saliva is the mouth's natural defense mechanism, helping to wash away food particles and neutralize plaque acids. Xylitol gum enhances this effect, providing a powerful shield against decay.
- Promotes Remineralization: Saliva is rich in minerals like calcium and phosphate. The increased flow helps in the remineralization of tooth enamel, which is the process of repairing early damage and strengthening the teeth against future decay.
Experts suggest a daily xylitol intake of 6 to 10 grams, divided into three or more exposures, for maximum dental benefit. This is often delivered effectively and safely through chewing gum.
Ingredients to Avoid for Your Child's Health
Just as important as choosing the right ingredients is knowing which ones to avoid. Traditional sugary gums are a clear 'no' for dental health, but some artificial sweeteners also have drawbacks.
- Sugar: The most obvious ingredient to avoid. Regular gum with sugar provides a continuous food source for cavity-causing bacteria, leading to acid attacks on tooth enamel.
- Artificial Sweeteners: Some sugar-free gums use artificial sweeteners like aspartame or sorbitol. While these don't feed bacteria like sugar, they can cause digestive upset, such as gas and diarrhea, in high doses. Aspartame has also been linked to other health concerns in some studies, although regulatory bodies have approved its use within limits. Opting for gum sweetened solely with xylitol or other natural alternatives is generally the safest bet.
- Synthetic Gum Base: Many commercial gums are made with synthetic, plastic-based gum bases. Natural, biodegradable alternatives made from tree sap (chicle) are available from eco-conscious brands.
When is it Safe for Kids to Chew Gum?
Introducing gum at the right age is crucial for safety. Most pediatricians and dentists recommend waiting until a child is at least 4 or 5 years old. At this age, a child can typically understand the concept of chewing without swallowing.
Choking Hazard: For younger children, chewing gum presents a choking risk. This is especially true for hard gumballs, which should be avoided until a child is older.
Swallowing Gum: The myth that swallowed gum stays in the stomach for seven years is false. A swallowed piece of gum will pass through the digestive system and exit the body, though it is still not intended for consumption.
Jaw Problems: Excessive or aggressive chewing can put strain on the jaw muscles and lead to temporomandibular joint dysfunction (TMJ). For this reason, chewing should be done in moderation, typically for about 20 minutes after meals.
Comparing Gum Options for Kids
Here is a simple comparison of different gum types to help you make an informed decision:
| Feature | Healthiest Gum (Xylitol, Natural Base) | Common Sugar-Free Gum (Sorbitol, Aspartame) | Sugary Gum (Bubble Gum) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Primary Sweetener | Xylitol (from plants) | Sorbitol, aspartame, other sugar alcohols | Sugar (sucrose, corn syrup) |
| Effect on Bacteria | Actively fights cavity-causing bacteria | Neutral, does not feed bacteria | Feeds bacteria, promotes acid production |
| Effect on Teeth | Promotes saliva, strengthens enamel, remineralizes teeth | Promotes saliva, but lacks the specific bacterial-fighting action of xylitol | Causes plaque buildup and tooth decay |
| Gum Base | Natural chicle from tree sap, biodegradable | Synthetic, plastic-based gum base | Often synthetic, plastic-based |
| Potential Side Effects | Digestive discomfort with very high intake | Digestive issues (gas, bloating, diarrhea) | Promotes cavities and dental erosion |
Dentist-Recommended Brands
When you're ready to purchase, look for brands that prioritize dental health. The American Dental Association (ADA) Seal of Acceptance is a reliable indicator that a sugar-free gum is safe and effective. Several reputable brands are recommended by dentists for kids:
- Spry: Uses pure xylitol and is often dentist-recommended.
- PUR Gum: Sweetened with 100% xylitol and free from aspartame.
- Zellie's: Developed by dental professionals and backed by science to reduce cavity risk.
- Xylichew: A naturally sweetened gum that contains a high amount of xylitol.
- Trident (sugar-free): A widely available, ADA-approved option that contains some xylitol.
- Simply Gum: An all-natural, vegan option made with chicle and sweetened with xylitol.
Conclusion
Selecting the healthiest gum for kids is a straightforward process when you know what to look for. The ideal choice is a sugar-free gum that uses xylitol as its primary sweetener, is free of artificial additives, and has the American Dental Association (ADA) Seal of Acceptance. Remember that chewing gum is a supplement to, not a replacement for, a proper oral hygiene routine of brushing and flossing daily. Introducing gum to children who are at least 4 or 5 and understand chewing without swallowing is the safest approach. By making these informed choices, you can offer your child a fun treat that also supports their dental health.
More Resources on Oral Health
For more information on kids' oral health, including brushing tips and nutrition advice, visit MouthHealthy.org, a resource from the American Dental Association.
