Chewing gum is a popular habit, often used for freshening breath or as a low-calorie alternative to snacking. Many modern gums are sugar-free, utilizing artificial sweeteners that are generally considered positive for dental health. While occasional gum chewing is harmless, excessive consumption—chewing non-stop for hours every day—can lead to specific health complications. When this activity becomes a constant habit, the body can react with issues ranging from digestive upset to musculoskeletal strain.
Gastrointestinal Distress Caused by Excessive Chewing
One immediate consequence of continuous gum chewing is the swallowing of excess air, a condition known as aerophagia. The repetitive jaw motion encourages gulping small amounts of air, which accumulates in the gastrointestinal tract. This swallowed air is the primary cause of bloating, abdominal discomfort, and increased flatulence in individuals who chew gum excessively.
A second mechanism of distress comes from the common ingredients in sugar-free gum, specifically sugar alcohols like sorbitol, xylitol, and mannitol. These sweeteners are poorly absorbed by the small intestine and travel to the large intestine largely intact. Once in the colon, gut bacteria ferment these compounds, producing gas as a byproduct. This osmotic effect also draws water into the intestines, which can result in diarrhea or chronic laxation if large quantities are consumed daily.
The threshold for digestive side effects from sugar alcohols varies greatly among individuals, especially those with sensitive digestive systems, such as Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS). While the amount of sugar alcohol in a single stick is low, constant chewing results in a cumulative dose that can trigger osmotic and fermentation effects. Limiting the duration of chewing or avoiding gums with high amounts of these sweeteners can often mitigate these symptoms.
Jaw Pain and TMJ Strain
Chewing gum is a non-nutritive, repetitive movement that places undue stress on the masticatory system. The jaw is controlled by powerful muscles, such as the masseter and temporalis, which are designed for the short bursts of activity required for eating. Continuous, prolonged chewing forces these muscles to remain engaged without adequate rest, leading to fatigue, soreness, and spasms.
This overuse can eventually strain the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), the hinge connecting the jawbone to the skull. The joint is susceptible to inflammation and stress from repetitive motions, which can contribute to a temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD). Symptoms of TMD include persistent jaw pain, stiffness, headaches, and a clicking or popping sound when opening the mouth. Studies show an association between oral parafunctional behaviors, such as excessive gum chewing, and the development of TMD symptoms.
Impact on Dental Health Beyond Cavities
While sugar-free gum is often promoted for its ability to stimulate saliva and help neutralize acids, excessive chewing can still present unique risks to dental health beyond the traditional concern of cavities. Many gum flavors, especially those that are fruit-flavored or sour, contain food acids like citric acid or malic acid for taste enhancement. Constant exposure to these acidic ingredients, even in sugar-free varieties, can lead to dental erosion.
Dental erosion is the process where acid dissolves the enamel and hard tissue of the tooth, which differs from tooth decay caused by bacteria. Continuous chewing bathes the teeth in these acidic compounds, softening the enamel over time and making it susceptible to wear. Furthermore, the sticky texture of gum combined with the constant mechanical stress can compromise existing dental work. Prolonged gum use can potentially loosen or dislodge dental restorations such as fillings, crowns, or bridges.