Question

How does consuming sugarless chewing gum help prevent tooth decay?

As a responsible citizen, how do you intend to dispose of the chewing gum after chewing it?

Answer 1

pH and tooth decay:

• When we eat sugary chewing gum or sweet food items, Carbohydrates present in the food undergo bacterial decomposition.
• This results formation of different acids in our mouth like Ethanoic acid, Propanoic acid, Lactic acid, etc. which lower the pH of the mouth.
• As a result corrosion of enamel (the upper layer of our teeth) takes place, and tooth decay starts.
• Now consuming sugarless chewing gum will defy the whole idea of bacterial decomposition and acid formation, which will prevent tooth decay.

Answering the other question:

• Many people who consume chewing gum, generally dispose of it inadequately.
• They are made up of synthetic polymers, which are non-biodegradable.
• Also, littered gums have been found in fish, which could be toxic.
• It is a sticky material, when littered inadequately, sticks to people's footwear or clothes which is troublesome.
• So, to not face such issues, we should behave as responsible citizens and not throw it without wrapping it in paper or foil.