Benefits and Harms of Chewing Gum

Gastroenterologist Dr. Natalia Belova reported that "gum itself is not harmful to the body, but several nuances should be taken into consideration." In an interview with Pravda.Ru, she stated, "Uncontrolled chewing of gum can lead to negative consequences. Continuous and intense chewing can cause excessive stress on the temporomandibular joints, leading to facial and head pain. Additionally, excessive consumption of 'sugar gum' can contribute to the development of cavities and other dental problems." She advises, "It is recommended to chew gum for no longer than 20-30 minutes at a time, and to avoid chewing for about an hour to allow the jaw joints and muscles to relax. However, in general, chewing gum without discipline or to avoid unnecessary strain on the jaws does not have specific time limits, but it may have contraindications." According to her, chewing gum also has benefits, as "the act of chewing helps stimulate saliva production, which naturally protects the gums and teeth from the effects of bacteria and acids. Additionally, chewing gum can help reduce stress and anxiety levels, as well as improve memory and concentration. However, the appropriate gum should be chosen, and regular visits to the dentist should be made to maintain oral health."