Is Nicorette Gum Bad for Your Teeth?

Nicorette gum is a popular nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) used to help people quit smoking. It delivers nicotine to the body in a way that simulates the sensation of smoking, helping to reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms. However, there is some concern that Nicorette gum may have negative effects on oral health.

Potential Effects on Teeth

Some studies have suggested that Nicorette gum may contribute to tooth decay. The nicotine in the gum can increase salivation, which helps to neutralize acids in the mouth and protect teeth from decay. However, the sugar or other sweeteners in the gum can also contribute to tooth decay if it is not properly removed from the teeth.

Additionally, the abrasive nature of the gum can wear down tooth enamel over time. This can make teeth more susceptible to decay and other problems.

What the Research Says

One study, published in the Journal of the American Dental Association, found that people who used Nicorette gum for 12 weeks had a significantly higher risk of developing cavities than those who did not use the gum. The study also found that the risk of cavities was greater for people who used the gum more frequently.

Another study, published in the British Dental Journal, found that people who used Nicorette gum for 1 year had a slightly higher risk of developing cavities than those who did not use the gum. However, the study also found that the risk of cavities was not significant among people who used the gum correctly and maintained good oral hygiene.

How to Protect Your Teeth

If you are using Nicorette gum, there are a few things you can do to protect your teeth:

Brush and floss your teeth regularly. This will help to remove plaque and bacteria from your teeth and gums.

Rinse your mouth with water after using Nicorette gum. This will help to remove any sugar or other sweeteners from your teeth.

Avoid using Nicorette gum for long periods of time. The longer you use the gum, the greater the risk of damage to your teeth.

Talk to your dentist. Your dentist can provide you with more information about the risks and benefits of Nicorette gum and can help you develop a plan to protect your oral health.

Conclusion

The evidence on the effects of Nicorette gum on teeth is mixed. Some studies have found that the gum does not significantly increase the risk of tooth decay, while others have found a small but significant increase. If you are using Nicorette gum, it is important to take steps to protect your teeth by brushing and flossing regularly, rinsing your mouth with water after using the gum, avoiding using the gum for long periods of time, and talking to your dentist.

Benefit	How to
Protects teeth from decay	Brush and floss your teeth regularly.
Removes sugar and other sweeteners from teeth	Rinse your mouth with water after using Nicorette gum.
Reduces the risk of damage to teeth	Avoid using Nicorette gum for long periods of time.

Risk	How to mitigate
Increases the risk of tooth decay	Take steps to protect your teeth by brushing and flossing regularly, rinsing your mouth with water after using the gum, avoiding using the gum for long periods of time, and talking to your dentist.
Wears down tooth enamel	Use the gum correctly and maintain good oral hygiene.

Is Nicorette Gum Bad for Your Teeth?