Comparative Effects of Chewing Gums in Oral Health: An Original Research

Abstract

Aim

The purpose of our research was to assess the oral health status of patients while using sugar free chewing gums in comparison to those who were not using chewing gum.

Methodology

Forty patients included in the present study, were divided into two groups- one consuming sugar-free chewing gum and other one as a control. The chewing gum group was composed of twenty patients and control gum group was composed also of twenty patients. The subjects for the study were selected randomly and they were in a good general health and were not using any medications. Oral examination of patients were carried out using the plaque index (PI) and DMFT index of the study subjects.

Results

The study demonstrates significant differences between the chewing and control group in the amount of plaque accumulation in relation to plaque index score especially for the 1^st two months of the study. Similar result was observed with respect to DMFT score, which showed less prevalence of caries in the study population.

Conclusion

As health care providers, we should include in our dental education programmes the role of chewing gum as an adjunct to individual self-care such as routine daily brushing, flossing and regular dental check.