Chewing gum can be a comforting and enjoyable way to cope with the challenges of living with dentures. Whether you're new to dentures or have been wearing them for years, finding the right type of gum to chew can make a world of difference. This article aims to provide you with valuable tips and recommendations about the best chewing gums for dentures, as well as some important considerations to keep in mind when choosing and using them.
Benefits of Chewing Gum with Dentures
Chewing gum can provide several benefits for denture wearers. These include:
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Improved Chewing Experience – Chewing gum can help you get more practice chewing and biting, which can strengthen your bite force for tougher foods. It can also freshen breath and stimulate saliva production, which is essential for maintaining oral health.
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Prevention of Dry Mouth – People who wear dentures may struggle with dry mouth due to reduced saliva production. Chewing gum can help relieve this discomfort by stimulating the production of saliva.
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Killing Bacteria – Some牙科研究表明，某些无糖口香糖含有能够杀死致龋菌的成分，如木糖醇。这对于那些仍然拥有天然牙齿的人来说尤其有益。
Types of Chewing Gum for Dentures
When choosing a chewing gum for dentures, it's important to consider whether it is sugar-free, soft or hard and whether it contains any fillers or artificial sweeteners. Here are some options to consider:
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Active Denture Chewing Gum – This type of gum is specifically designed for dentures wearers and helps to clean and freshen your dentures while you chew. Look for gum that is labeled as "denture-friendly" and contains minimal sugar.
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Freeend Chewing Gum – This gum is made by Wrigley's and is known for being less sticky than other gum formulations. Although it contains sugar, it is considered safe for most denture wearers.
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Dentyne Ice Sugar Free Gum – This gum has a refreshing spearmint flavor and is made with sugar-free ingredients. It is a good choice for people with partial dentures who want to keep their breath fresh.
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Wrigley's Freedent Spearmint 8 ct – This gum offers a full 8 pieces in a resealable tube, making it easy to carry and use throughout the day. It is sweetened with xylitol, a natural sweetener that is great for your teeth.
Tips for Using Chewing Gum with Dentures
When using chewing gum with dentures, here are some tips to help ensure a comfortable and safe experience:
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Start Slow – If you're new to wearining dentures, start by chewing on one side of your mouth at a time.
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Chew Gently – Avoid biting down too hard on your gum as it can cause discomfort or damage to your dentures.
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Take Breaks – Give your jaw muscles and gums a break by taking out the gum every 20-30 minutes and giving them a rest.
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Use Dental Adhesive – If you're using a denture adhesive, make sure the gum you choose is compatible with it. Some gums may break down the adhesive, causing your dentures to become loose.
Getting the Right Chewing Gum
When it comes to choosing a chewing gum for dentures, it's important to consider your specific needs and preferences. If you have partial dentures, look for a gum that contains minimal sugar. And if you're concerned about the stickiness of certain gums, opt for a sugar-free option instead.
Conclusion
Finding the right chewing gum for dentures can make a significant difference in your quality of life. By choosing the right type of gum and considering important factors like sugar content, texture and compatibility, you can enjoy the benefits of chewing gum while maintaining the comfort and stability of your dentures. Remember to always consult with your dentist before making any changes to your oral health routine.
