Nicotine Gum: Side Effects on Teeth and How to Avoid Them

Nicotine gum is an effective tool for quitting smoking, but it can have side effects on teeth, such as:

• Increased risk of cavities: Nicotine gum can reduce saliva production, which helps protect teeth from decay.
• Gum irritation: The chemicals in nicotine gum can irritate the gums, causing redness, swelling, and bleeding.
• Tooth discoloration: Nicotine can stain teeth, leaving them yellow or brown.

Stories:

Benefit 1: Reducing Cavities

To reduce your risk of cavities while using nicotine gum, brush your teeth twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste and floss regularly. You can also use a mouthwash with fluoride to help protect your teeth.

Benefit 2: Avoiding Gum Irritation

To avoid gum irritation, use nicotine gum according to the package instructions. Do not chew more gum than recommended, and do not chew for longer than 30 minutes at a time. If you experience gum irritation, stop using the gum and consult your dentist.

How To Do:

1. Choose the right nicotine gum. There are different types of nicotine gum available, so choose one that is appropriate for your needs.
2. Start with a low dose. If you are new to nicotine gum, start with a low dose and gradually increase it as needed.
3. Chew the gum for 30 minutes at a time. Do not chew the gum for longer than 30 minutes at a time, as this can increase your risk of side effects.
4. Avoid eating or drinking while chewing the gum. This can reduce the effectiveness of the gum.
5. Use the gum as directed. Follow the instructions on the package carefully.

Call to action:

If you are considering using nicotine gum to quit smoking, talk to your doctor or dentist about the potential side effects and how to avoid them.