The team at Berkeley Family Orthodontics wants to put a familiar playground myth to rest: if you swallow a piece of gum, it does not sit in your stomach for seven years. In most cases, it does not even last seven days. Although gum is not meant to be swallowed, it passes harmlessly through the digestive system and leaves the body like anything else you eat.
There is a grain of truth to the myth. Gum is not digested, because it contains resins (natural or synthetic) that our bodies cannot break down. So the gum base simply travels along the digestive tract and passes through.
Is Swallowing Gum Dangerous?
For the occasional swallowed piece, no. A problem could only arise if someone swallowed many pieces in a short time, or one very large wad. This is really only a concern for young children, who might not understand that gum is for chewing and not swallowing, and in rare cases swallowing a large amount can lead to digestive trouble. For everyone else, the occasional accidentally swallowed piece has no meaningful effect.
What Does Chewing Gum Do to Your Teeth?
When you chew gum, saliva breaks down the sugars, but acidic byproducts can be left behind on the teeth, and over time those acids wear at enamel and can lead to cavities. The good news is that as long as you practice good oral hygiene and brush at least twice a day, ordinary gum chewing will not do much harm. Chewing sugary gum all day without brushing, on the other hand, will speed up decay.
If you are wondering whether sugar-free gum is a better choice, the answer is a personal one. Some people prefer to avoid the artificial sweeteners used in sugar-free gum, while others are happy with it. It is worth reading up and deciding what is best for your family.
One Important Note for Braces Patients
If you wear braces, we ask you to skip gum entirely. Chewing gum can bend wires and pop off brackets, which can slow down your treatment and mean extra visits. If you want a refresher on foods to enjoy and avoid during treatment, see our braces care guide.
Questions About Braces and Everyday Habits?
We are always happy to help. Call Berkeley Family Orthodontics at (510) 849-3613 or request an appointment online. Our office is at 2999 Regent Street, Suite 408, in Berkeley’s Elmwood neighborhood.