Chew on this

Rather than going on and on and on about the benefits of brushing and flossing at your next recare appointment, it may simply be suggested that you chew gum containing the ingredient Recaldent or Xylitol. There is news in the dental world that the chemical Recaldent has the basics to rebuild acid-damaged enamel. Calcium and phosphorus are the right components to do just that--but be careful. Those that are lactose-intolerant will not have any problems, because Recaldent does not contain lactose. But since it does come from the casein in milk, those allergic to milk can be sensitive to it.

Chewing for five minutes is long enough to get the total benefit of Recaldent. And chewing right after brushing with a fluoridated toothpaste has an even greater benefit, since fluoride is dependent on the calcium and phosphorus content. Recaldent supplies these chemicals to build up weakened enamel. So far, Recaldent can be found in Trident gum.

Xylitol, another ingredient that can be found in gum and lozenges, stops the metabolism of the major culprits of tooth decay progression. It also helps remineralize ares of the tooth that have already broken down.

The action of chewing sugarless gum with Recaldent or Xylitol has been proven to enhance the remineralization of enamel in an application as infrequently as fifteen minutes after a meal.

Although it would be great if more than five percent of the population flossed on a daily basis and that everyone brush their teeth for two minutes (at least) twice a day, chewing gum with these ingredients may be the best thing for fighting tooth decay...and the vst thing for dental hygienist's everywhere that are continuously trying to liven up the homecare routine for their patients!