A sore throat, medically known as pharyngitis, is characterized by irritation, scratchiness, or pain that often makes swallowing uncomfortable. This common symptom is typically a sign of underlying inflammation within the back of the throat (pharynx). When discomfort strikes, many people look for a quick, accessible remedy, and chewing gum frequently comes up as a simple option for relief. This exploration focuses on the scientific reasons why chewing gum can offer temporary relief for a mildly irritated throat.
Increased Saliva Production
The primary way chewing gum helps soothe a sore throat is through the mechanical stimulation of the salivary glands. The physical act of chewing triggers a significant increase in the production and flow rate of saliva, which is a natural body response to mastication. Studies show that chewing gum can temporarily increase the salivary flow rate significantly, maintaining a sustained rate higher than the unstimulated flow.
This surge of saliva continuously coats the mucous membranes lining the throat, acting as an immediate lubricant. When the throat is irritated or dry, this lubrication reduces the friction that occurs during swallowing, which is often the source of the most intense pain. The continuous moisture also helps to rehydrate the inflamed tissues, alleviating the scratchy or raw feeling caused by dryness. Saliva also helps to clear away small irritants and contains enzymes that promote a healthier oral environment, offering a temporary sense of comfort.
Active Ingredients That Matter
Beyond the mechanical benefits of increased moisture, certain ingredients added to chewing gum contribute to the sensation of relief. Many gums contain flavorings like menthol, peppermint, or eucalyptus, which provide a distinctive cooling feeling in the mouth and throat. This cooling sensation is essentially a mild, topical sensory effect that temporarily masks the underlying pain and irritation. Menthol interacts with cold receptors in the tissue, creating a sensation of coolness that distracts from the discomfort of the sore throat.
When choosing a gum for this purpose, it is recommended to select a sugar-free option. Gums sweetened with alternatives like xylitol or sorbitol are preferable because they do not feed the bacteria in the mouth that can contribute to oral health issues. While some gums may contain ingredients like zinc, their concentration is typically too low to provide a measurable effect on the underlying illness. The immediate relief from chewing gum is mainly derived from the lubricating saliva and the sensory distraction provided by strong flavorings.
Gum Versus Medicated Treatments
Chewing gum offers symptomatic relief that is temporary and based on comfort, which differs from the action of dedicated medicated treatments. While gum uses saliva and mild flavorings for lubrication and a cooling effect, over-the-counter medicated lozenges often contain higher concentrations of pharmacologically active agents. These agents can include numbing compounds, such as benzocaine or dyclonine, or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like flurbiprofen.
These medicated treatments are designed to numb the affected area or actively reduce inflammation, providing a deeper and often longer-lasting reduction in pain compared to chewing gum. Gum is best suited for managing minor irritation, dryness, or a mild, scratchy sensation. For a persistent or more severe sore throat, gum’s comfort-based approach may not be sufficient to manage the acute symptoms of the illness. For significant pain or symptoms that do not improve, seeking advice from a medical professional or using a specifically formulated medicated treatment is a more appropriate course of action.