studies suggest that gum may also help remineralize teeth, reduce decay and plaque, and prevent or even reverse gingivitis.
SEAL OF APPROVAL
Do 4 out of 5 Dentists Really Recommend Chewing Gum? We’ve all seen the commercials: An attractive spokesperson holds up a pack of gum and happily boasts, “4 out of 5 dentists recommend our brand!” This is surely bogus, right? Everyone knows sugar is bad for your teeth, so why would dentists ever recommend chewing gum? It may be because that particular gum doesn’t actually contain any sugar. Candies like caramels and lollipops are public enemy No. 1 when it comes to tooth health, but many types of chewing gum contain non-cavity-causing sweeteners like aspartame, sorbitol, or mannitol. Because of the absence of sugar, chewing gum can be surprisingly good for your teeth. The act of chewing increases your mouth’s flow of saliva. This may sound a little gross, but saliva helps break down the food you eat, neutralizing the enamel-destroying acid produced by bacteria in plaque. When you chew gum after meals, you actively help combat harmful oral bacteria. Clinical studies have found that chewing sugarless gum for 20 minutes after a meal can help prevent tooth decay. Other
How do you know if you are buying sugary candy or
cavity-fighting super gum? Check the label
for the American Dental Association (ADA) Seal of Acceptance. The ADA Seal
is awarded to companies or products that are able to produce “scientific evidence that demonstrates the safety and efficacy of its product, which the ADA Council on Scientific Affairs carefully evaluates according to objective requirements.” Basically, if companies can prove their product helps your teeth in some way, their product may earn a seal of approval. Chewing gum cannot replace regular brushing and flossing, but it can help protect your teeth between brushings. If you want to see if your favorite gum is helping you prevent cavities, check out the full list of sugarless gums that have been awarded the ADA Seal at MouthHealthy.org/en/ada-seal-products.
Have a Laugh
AND SESAME SALAD Green Bean
Ingredients • 3 cups green beans, ends trimmed • 1 teaspoon white wine vinegar • 1 tablespoon olive oil • 2 tablespoons sesame seeds, toasted
• 1 small red onion, finely chopped • Small bunch of fresh mint • Small bunch of flat-leaf parsley • Salt and pepper, to taste
Directions 1. Bring a large saucepan of water to boil; cook green beans for 4–5 minutes; drain well. 2. In a blender, mix finely chopped mint and parsley with olive oil, vinegar, salt, and pepper. Blend until combined. 3. Add dressing, onion, and sesame seeds to beans. Toss together. Cool dish, then refrigerate until ready to serve. Inspired by Delicious magazine
Huron Smiles • 605-352-8753 • 3
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