Update for our patients and community » LEARN MORE
At Granbury Dental Center, we believe knowledge is power. That’s why we’re dedicated to life-long learning, continuing education, and teaching our patients, community members, and other dental and healthcare professionals about the latest advancements in dentistry. From the latest research to new treatment methods and technologies, to basic knowledge of all things oral health, you’ll find everything you need to know right here on our blog. Follow along to keep your mouth, body, and brain sharp and healthy!
Do you remember your first time chewing gum? If you’re like some of us at Granbury Dental Center, you might even recall hearing that swallowing gum would result in it staying in your stomach for up to seven years!
There are a lot of myths that still float around these days, so if you hear that chewing gum may be the cause of headaches, you might be inclined to declare that false, too. However, doctors have found a link between the two, and we think it’s an important one to examine because of how many children and teens love to chew gum.
Before we discuss why chewing gum can cause headaches, we do want to state that plenty of Granbury folks benefit from the way it can increase saliva production, which in turn helps fight enamel erosion. But if your child or teen chews gum frequently, their jaw might want a break—specifically their temporomandibular joint.
The constant pressure of chewing can stress the temporomandibular joint, and if your child happens to be a nail biter or nighttime teeth grinder, even more trouble can ensue. To help their teeth and jaw relax, suggest they limit their gum chewing to one piece a day—perhaps after lunch to help them reduce acidity in their mouth!
One more thing to note: some doctors believe artificial sweeteners like aspartame may be the cause of headaches. For this reason and because of its enamel strengthening benefits, we recommend Xylitol-gums!
If you have any questions about gum chewing or other habits you’re unsure of when it comes to your child’s dental health, Dr. Buske, Dr. Okada, and Dr. Grammer would love to answer them for you. Contact us today to schedule a visit!
The content of this blog is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of qualified health providers with questions you may have regarding medical conditions.
Our Location
3412 East Hwy 377
Granbury, TX 76049
Proudly Serving Texas
Since 1982
Office Hours
MON 8AM - 5PM
TUE 8AM - 5PM
WED 8AM - 6PM
THU 8AM - 6PM
FRI 8AM - 3PM
Please call us at (817) 573-3761 or fill out the form below to request an appointment.