The Great Debate: Mints vs. Sugar-Free Gum

You are likely already aware that the best way to combat bad breath is consistent, healthy dental hygiene. What do you do, though, when you’re at work and have enjoyed a particularly strong cup of coffee? How do you refresh after a business lunch or before an important meeting? Mints and gum are both popular options to feel fresh and clean when you’re on-the-go; but which is the better choice for your oral health? Keep reading to find the answer!

What’s Wrong With Mints?

We know that sugary foods attract bacteria that can lead to tooth decay, so you might want to think twice about popping that mint to fight bad breath! Some mints contain as much sugar as a piece of candy. You ultimately wouldn’t be doing yourself any favors by attracting more harmful germs with high sugar content.

Not only that, but biting down on hard mints could harm your teeth, or damage fillings and crowns. If you’re looking for a quick fix after meals to help with bad breath, you might opt for sugar free gum instead.

What is Sugar Free Gum?

With sugar-free gum, the flavor comes from sweeteners, like Xylitol. Without sugar, it doesn’t attract unhealthy bacteria or encourage plaque to form the way mints do. It’s a safer choice that still leaves your mouth feeling reinvigorated.  

Why Should I Chew Sugar Free Gum?

There are benefits to chewing sugar free gum that you might not be aware of, making it a great solution to cool your breath after eating. Some advantages include:

• Protection. Your teeth are most susceptible to harm after eating, as acids, sugar, and other ingredients slowly dissolve the hard enamel. Chewing gum (with no sugar!) after meals produces saliva that serves as a natural defense against acid erosion.
• Avoid Dry Mouth. Another contributor to bad breath is dry mouth, which allows bacteria to flourish. That means the saliva produced when chewing sugar-free gum not only fights erosion, but also keeps your mouth more naturally flushed.
• Replace Minerals. A common ingredient used in many sugar-free mints and gums is Xylitol. It’s as sweet as sugar, and is found naturally in certain berries, fruits, vegetables, and birch bark. It actually helps reduce tooth decay and can even replace minerals missing from your tooth enamel.

How Long Should I Chew?

Though sugar-free gum can protect your teeth, chewing too much or too long can lead to muscle aches in your mouth and jaw. Studies have shown that it takes about an hour after eating for your mouth to replace minerals lost in the enamel. If you chew sugar-free gum for 20 minutes after eating or drinking, however, it speeds up the process. You’re welcome to chew longer than that if you wish but won’t necessarily reap any additional benefit.

As you can see, sugar-free gum has clear advantages over standard mints. Instead of attracting harmful bacteria with high sugar content, it actually helps protect and restore your teeth. That means ultimately, it improves your oral health while it freshens your breath. There’s no better reason to reach for a pack of sugar-free gum after your next meal!

About the Author

With over 17 years of experience and multiple specialties, Dr. Mark Simeone provides patients with expertise in general dentistry, orthodontics, cosmetic dentistry, oral surgeries, and more. If you are interested in perfecting your smile, feel free to reach out to the office on the website or by calling (610) 383-1600.