Taking the Bite Out of Myths

Does chewing gum promote tooth decay? Is brushing after every meal really necessary? Do teeth get dark with age because of coffee, tea or cigarettes?

“All these questions may be answered the same way--with an astounding no,” says Sinaida Kniter, a cosmetic dentist with the Hollywood Smile Dental Center.

Chewing sugarless gum after a meal may help prevent tooth decay by dislodging particles that attract bacteria and cause decay and gum disease, Kniter says.

“In some cases, I’ve found that chewing sugarless gum after meals, when done in conjunction with a proper brushing and flossing program, not only fights tooth decay, but cavities as well.”

Brushing after every meal is a good habit--but it’s not necessary and can actually erode tooth enamel if done after eating vinegar or citrus foods. She suggests rinsing the mouth with clear water after an acidic meal, then brushing.

Kniter believes coffee, tea and cigarettes do add to the tooth’s darkening process, but adds, “As we age, the tooth enamel thins. Beneath the enamel is darker tissue known as dentin. The dentin will start to show through and make teeth seem darker as years pass, even if you’ve never had a cup of coffee or a cigarette.”