Feb 19, 2024, 03:20 PM IST

Harmful effects of chewing gum

Khushi Patel

Jaw issues

Prolonged gum chewing can aggravate pre-existing jaw issues and cause temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder, which can cause discomfort, pain, and trouble moving the jaw

Tooth decay

Sugar and artificial sweeteners, found in many chewing gums, can cause cavities and tooth decay, particularly if chewed on a regular basis without practicing good oral hygiene

Digestive problems

Bloating, gas, and diarrhoea may result from consuming too much gum or any of its constituents, including artificial sweeteners or sugar alcohols

Headaches

Chewing gum too much or too forcefully can cause strain on the neck and head muscles, which can result in tension headaches or migraines

TMJ issues

Symptoms of TMJ disorders include pain, popping or clicking sounds in the jaw joint, and trouble chewing. Chewing gum can cause these symptoms to appear or worsen

Dental erosion

Dental erosion is a phenomenon wherein chewing gums with acidic components or flavourings wear away the tooth enamel and raise the risk of cavities and tooth discomfort

Artificial sweeteners

Aspartame, sucralose, and sorbitol are among the artificial sweeteners used in many sugar-free chewing gums. These sweeteners have been linked to a number of unfavourable health outcomes, including headaches, stomach problems, and possible alterations in gut microbiota

Choking hazard

Chewing gum or inadvertently breathing it in can present a choking hazard, especially for small children or people who have trouble swallowing

This content, including advice, gives generic information only and is in no way a substitute for a qualified medical opinion