Fitness Chewing Gum: Why You Should Stay Away!
There’s a new TikTok trend in town, and it’s got people chomping away in hopes of sculpting that picture-perfect jawline. The trend? Fitness chewing gum. Yep, you heard that right. Special gum that promises to “work out” your jaw and give you a sharper, more defined look. But before you start chewing like a machine, let’s talk about why dentists are waving the red flag on this one.
What’s the Big Deal with Fitness Gum?
Here’s how it’s supposed to work: by chewing on super-dense gum, you’re supposedly building up the masseter muscles along your jaw. Think of it like lifting weights—but for your face. The theory is that stronger jaw muscles will lead to a more sculpted appearance. But, here’s the catch: your jaw is not built like your biceps. Constantly gnawing on something that feels like a rubber tire doesn’t just “build muscles.” It can actually wear down your teeth and strain your jaw joints.
The Ugly Truth: Damage to Your Teeth
Your teeth aren’t fans of hardcore workouts! Chewing on ultra-tough gum can cause tiny fractures in the enamel. And these little cracks aren’t just cosmetic—they can eventually lead to tooth sensitivity, cavities, or worse, a full-blown break. Picture this: you’re just trying to snack on something simple, and suddenly—crack! That’s one expensive dental bill, all thanks to a jawline trend that wasn’t even going to work in the first place.
TMJ Issues and Pain
And let’s not forget about your poor jaw joints! The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) connects your jaw to your skull, and it’s a sensitive area. Overusing it with heavy-duty chewing can lead to chronic pain, stiffness, and even jaw popping. In severe cases, you might even need treatment or surgery to fix the damage.
Real Talk from Jonesboro Dental Care in Jonesboro, AR
Before you let TikTok convince you to chew your way to a “perfect” jawline, take a step back. At Jonesboro Dental Care in Jonesboro, AR, Dr. Jonathan Cook and Dr. Mark Kingston have seen the damage firsthand that trends like this can cause. Their advice? Skip the fitness gum and protect your smile! If you’ve got concerns about your jaw or teeth, swing by for a consultation and get some real solutions instead of social media quick fixes. Trust us—your teeth will thank you!
Categorised in: Dental Tips
