Chewing sugarless gum

If you want to take an extra step to help prevent cavities, chewing sugarless gum may be just what the dentist ordered. The American Dental Association offers this advice:

Health Tips

* Choose sugarless gum to help boost saliva production and wash away bacteria.

* Increased saliva can raise tooth exposure to calcium and phosphate, both of which strengthen tooth enamel.

* Chew the gum for about 20 minutes after a meal.

* Chewing gum, however, is not a substitute for regular brushing and flossing.