A cheap habit for cutting down on dental bills

Brushing before bed is probably the most important time to brush your teeth. Brushing after daily meals is also recommended. But what happens after daytime snacks when you can't brush? Bacteria in the mouth start consuming the sugar we eat and the acid from our soft drinks and coffee wear our teeth. Utilizing our body's natural defense, saliva, against oral challenges can be magnified by chewing gum. 

Chewing sugar-free gum promotes salivary flow, which helps buffer acids, clean the teeth, and potentially even combat some bacteria. Chewing gum containing xylitol is preferred. Chewing gum not only loosens up food in your teeth but it gets the salivary glands working. Chewing the recommended dose of xylitol gum for about 10-20 minutes is a great way to protect your mouth when floss and a toothbrush aren't handy. 

Remember, gum is a complement to your normal dental routine, not a substitute.