Are Toddlers Actually Allowed to Chew Gum?
Let’s face it: children’s eating habits aren’t exactly exemplary. Toothpaste and – you guessed it – chewing gum are two of the most common things that babies and toddlers consume. After chewing gum for a while, it’s only natural that a child would want to eat something that tastes so fantastic. According to ancient wives’ tales, is it true that chewing gum lingers in your stomach for years after you’ve swallowed it? Even though digestion takes longer than it would with a better diet, your youngster can pass the gum without problems.
In this blog post, we will explore the safety and benefits of letting toddlers chew gum. We will also provide some guidelines on how much gum is safe for toddlers to chew. So read on to learn more!
Is It Okay For Toddlers To Chew Gum?
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that you wait until your child is old enough to grasp the dangers of swallowing gum before letting them chew a piece of gum. A child’s ability to chew something without swallowing becomes apparent around age five. You may even want to start with half a stick of gum to reduce the amount of gum ingested if it does happen. Just be sure to tell your youngster regularly that it is not candy and should not be swallowed whole. Xylitol, a natural sweetener, will be discussed in greater detail in the following section.
At What Age Should A Toddler Be Allowed To Chew Gum?
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends starting your child on sugar-free gum at the age of five if you prefer. As a youngster age, they begin to grasp the concept of eating something without swallowing it. If a piece of gum is mistakenly ingested, half a stick is usually recommended.
Potential Problems With Gum Chewing
You can allow your child to chew gum in moderation, just like you can allow them to eat candy. Gum chewing and swallowing can lead to a variety of health issues, including:
- Digestive system problems resulting in diarrhea and abdominal pain
- Mouth ulcers
- A lot of gas
- Chewing motion causes jaw issues.
- The sugar content of many gums causes dental decay (yes, even baby teeth can have cavities!)
What happen if your child swallows a gum?
A piece of gum has been swallowed by nearly everyone, although relatively few children have ever needed medical attention as a result. Swallowed gum is said to remain in your stomach for seven years. That isn’t correct. The digestive system can digest gum, but it can’t be broken down like other foods in the stomach. When you have a bowel movement, it comes out the other end (poop).
What is the best gum for chewing for toddlers?
Even though sugarless gum is not only safe for your child’s dental health, it can help. Several studies have found that sugar-free chewing gum helps rinse and neutralize acids that remain in the mouth after brushing and flossing.
This is just the beginning of the many advantages of sugarless chewing gum. A sweetener called “xylitol” is commonly found in sugarless variants, and it has been shown to suppress the growth of dangerous microorganisms. Thus, your child’s risk of acquiring tooth decay is reduced. Offer sugarless gum, preferably one with xylitol, for better oral health if your youngster asks for any. Your child won’t notice the difference between sugar-filled and sugar-free gum, which are both full of flavor.
Read More: 6 Fun Ways to Pull Out a Kid’s Tooth Without Pain
Contact Junior Smiles of Stafford learn more about chewing gum
Although it is generally discouraged to give toddlers gum, there are a few cases in which it can be beneficial. If you do choose to give your toddler gum, make sure that they are using sugar-free gum and are old enough to chew properly. It would also be best to regularly visit the most reputable pediatric dentist in your area for checkups and advice on oral health.
Why Choose Junior Smiles of Stafford?
Our Stafford, VA team is well-versed in working with clients of various ages and backgrounds. They’ll take the time to get to know you and your family’s requirements, and they’ll work with you to design a treatment plan that suits your schedule. Sealants and fluoride treatments are just two of the many preventative care options we provide to keep your mouth healthy.
About Us
Visiting Junior Smiles of Stafford means you’re in good hands when it comes to receiving high-quality care. Your child’s dental health improves with each visit, ensuring a brighter smile for years to come. We adhere to the ADA and AAPD’s guidelines for best practices.
Where Are We Located?
Phone: (540) 699-2441
Fax: (540) 699-2464
Email: info@juniorsmilesofstafford.com
Monday and Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Wednesdays and Thursdays: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Fridays and Saturdays: 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM (By appointment only)
How to Book Your Kids First Appointment at Junior Smiles of Stafford
Fill out the form on our website. Within 24 hours, a member of our team will get back to you.