The Indian Dental Association (IDA)'s flagship event World Dental Show will be held between October 5 and 7, 2012 in Mumbai. The event, dedicated to dental excellence, is now focusing on varied aspects of dental care.

Oral hygiene is vital for good health. This is where sugar-free gum has been recommend to maintain oral hygiene, according to Dr Ashok Dhoble, secretary general, IDA.

Many people chew gum for fresh breath or for its taste, but gum chewers are finding that the benefits of chewing sugar-free gum extend much beyond.  More than two decades of research by leading health organizations across the world in the field of oral care has shown that chewing sugar-free gum provides oral health benefits, and emerging science suggests potential wellness benefits of sugar-free gum in appropriate oral care.

Oral health affects general health and vice versa. A gum disease is a bacterial infection. If not treated in time, it is capable of affecting the other body organs through the blood stream.

Good oral care habits are essential for the lifelong health of teeth and gums. While dentists recommend brushing twice a day, flossing daily and regular visits to the dentist, it is not possible for those on-the-go. Plaque acids are one of the main causes of tooth decay and they are produced after eat or drink by bacteria in the mouths. “Hence, the need for on-the-go oral care arises. This is when chewing gum can be a great contribution to oral health. Chewing a sugar-free gum, immediately after eating, is a portable and convenient supplement to your oral care routine that can provide a clean feeling and helps fight risk of cavities,” he said.

Chewing sugar-free gum also helps in relieving your mouth from dryness. A dry mouth has many causes and so there are a variety of treatments. Chewing sugar-free gum can help increase the production of saliva by 10 times the normal rate. Additionally, researches have shown that chewing sugar-free gum for 20 minutes after eating or drinking can help reduce tooth decay risk by up to 40 per cent, which, along with regular dental visits, can promote a healthier and happier mouth.

Although chewing gums cannot replace basic oral hygiene practices, yet when used as a supplement with brushing and flossing, it can ensure total oral care. It is best to chew soon after eating. Chewing for about twenty minutes removes food debris and plaque and stimulates the flow of saliva, said Dhoble.