The effect of chewing sugar-free gum on plaque regrowth at smooth and occlusal surfaces

Background and aim: Chewing gum has the potential to provide oral health benefits including plaque control. The aim of this study was to determine the effects of chewing sugar free gum on plaque regrowth at buccal, lingual and occlusal surfaces of teeth. Method and materials: 11 healthy and dentally-fit dental hygiene students participated in this randomised, single-blind crossover 4-day plaque regrowth study. From a zero plaque score on day 1, subjects suspended oral hygiene measures and either chewed gum or did not chew gum over 4 days. Gum chewing was one piece chewed for 30 min 4 x per day. On day 4, subjects were scored for plaque after disclosing from buccal, lingual and unrestored occlusal surfaces. Results: There was no significant difference in smooth surface plaque scores between the treatments but significantly less plaque accumulated (44%) at occlusal surfaces during gum chewing compared to no gum chewing. Conclusion: Chewing gum can reduce plaque accumulation at sites of predilection for caries but has little or no effect at sites of predilection for gingivitis.