Delicious gum is one of the most prominent types of sweets that many children prefer, as they eat it constantly due to its easy availability in various shapes and flavors in stores and supermarkets, which makes it look attractive and eye-catching. But, is it safe for children to eat gum, especially if they swallow a piece of it? In our article today   Dalili Medical, we will review this topic, in addition to providing tips on how to deal with this matter correctly.

What is gum?

 

When talking about gum, also known as gum, we must know that it is one of the most popular and attractive types of sweets, as it is preferred by many people of all ages. Gum is characterized by its flexibility and ease of chewing, and comes in various shapes, colors and flavors that meet different tastes and desires. As for its ingredients, most types of gum available today contain ingredients such as chips, sweeteners, flavors, synthetic rubber and preservatives. It is important to note that gum residues do not contain nutritional value and cannot be digested like other common foods.

What should I do if my child swallows gum?

 

Usually, a visit to the doctor is not necessary if a child swallows a piece of gum, as it passes through the digestive system normally. However, if a child swallows a large amount of gum or swallows it with other indigestible materials, a blockage may occur, which may require surgery to remove the blockage.

What is the appropriate age for children to chew gum?

 

Children should not be allowed to chew gum until they are old enough to understand the importance of not swallowing it, but rather chewing it only. By around age 5, most children are able to understand this and understand the difference between gum and other sweets.

What exactly happens to gum?

 

Gum is made up of natural or synthetic ingredients (such as gum resin), as well as preservatives, flavors, and sweeteners. Sweeteners such as sugar can be absorbed by the body, which can lead to increased calories in children if large amounts of sugary gum are chewed. However, the human digestive system cannot digest gum resin. Instead, it moves through the digestive system thanks to natural bowel movements, and ends up when going to the bathroom.

What are the risks of gum for children?

 

The main risks of gum for children are the possibility of swallowing it, as children tend to chew gum because of its sweet and delicious taste. However, due to their young age, they may lack the ability to control what they eat, which increases the likelihood of them swallowing gum after chewing it. Therefore, the child can be allowed to eat small amounts of it from time to time, but it must be ensured that he will not swallow it and that he will get rid of it after its flavor disappears. In addition, gum may cause some problems, such as:

- Digestive disorders, such as diarrhea and abdominal pain.

- Bloating and gas.

- Jaw pain and problems due to excessive chewing and pressure on the teeth.

- Tooth decay due to its high sugar content, which interacts with bacteria and produces acids that erode tooth enamel.

Should very young children be banned from chewing gum?

 

Children should not chew gum until they fully understand the importance of not swallowing it. By the age of five, most children will understand that gum is different from candy and should not be swallowed, so if you have young children, hold off on giving them gum until they are older. Too much of anything can also be a problem. Chewing gum is hard on teeth, and most sugarless gums can cause tooth decay. Sugar-free gum sweetened with sorbitol can also be a problem because it can cause diarrhea in children. Cinnamon-flavored gums can also irritate the lining of the mouth. They can also be hot and spicy in your mouth, as you probably know. A good rule of thumb is to stick to sugar-free gum and eat no more than one or two pieces a day. And when you’re done with it, don’t swallow it—throw it away instead!

**How ​​does the digestive system deal with gum?**

 

Although the stomach cannot break down gum in the same way as other foods, the digestive system is able to get rid of gum through normal bowel activity. In other words, your child’s body will get rid of the gum through the defecation process.

**When should you consult a doctor about your child?**

 

Young children tend to swallow inappropriate things, such as toothpaste and small toys, in addition to gum. But in the case of swallowing gum, there is no need to worry too much, as children will get rid of the gum they swallowed within a few hours, just like adults. However, if your child swallows a large amount of gum in a short period of time - such as one piece a day for a week, or four pieces at a time - his digestive system may be at risk. This can lead to an intestinal obstruction, which prevents any food he eats after that from passing through, causing reflux.

Remember that an intestinal obstruction will not go away on its own, and if left untreated, it can lead to a rupture in the digestive system. So, you should consult a doctor immediately if your child swallows a large amount of gum and starts to feel signs of intestinal obstruction, such as:

- Abdominal pain.

- Constipation.

- Feeling very full or bloated.

- Severe cramps.

- Vomiting.

Although swallowing gum usually does not cause harm to the digestive system, the sweeteners in sugar-free gum can lead to headaches, diarrhea, and nausea if swallowed in large quantities. The best way to avoid the risk of intestinal obstruction due to gum is to not swallow it at all. Always try to spit the gum into a tissue or nearby trash can.

When can my child chew gum?

 

Let's be honest, it is known that young children need close monitoring of their eating habits. Since gum can pose a choking hazard for young children, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that children not be allowed to chew gum.For children under five years old to chew gum. By age five, children can be taught how to chew something without swallowing it. In general, it is best to start with half a piece of gum to reduce the risk of choking if they accidentally swallow it.

What is the best type of gum?

 

Not all types of gum are created equal. Although sugary gum may be tasty, it can be bad for teeth. When your child chews sugary gum, the sugar erodes tooth enamel and feeds cavity-causing bacteria. So, it is best to avoid sugary types altogether. Instead, the American Dental Association (ADA) recommends using sugar-free gum that carries the ADA Seal of Approval. Gum with this seal helps fight tooth decay rather than encourage it!

What are the benefits of sugar-free gum for children?

 

Providing sugar-free gum to children can help prevent and treat tooth decay, as it has several benefits, including:

- Chewing gum stimulates the production of saliva, which acts as a mouthwash.

- It helps neutralize the acids secreted by bacteria that cause decay.

- It helps remove food particles when they are difficult to brush or floss.

- It helps treat dry mouth, which can lead to bad breath and other problems, as chewing gum stimulates the secretion of saliva, which moisturizes the mouth.

- Some types of sugar-free gum contain sweeteners such as xylitol, which helps prevent the growth of some types of bacteria that cause tooth decay, and also prevents them from sticking to the teeth if they are already present.

What are the risks associated with chewing gum, especially for children?

 

It is known that excessive amounts of anything can have negative effects on health, and chewing gum can lead to the following damages:

- Chewing gum can be harmful to teeth.

- Gum that contains sugars increases the risk of tooth decay in children.

- Some types of sugar-free gum sweetened with sorbitol may cause diarrhea.

- Gum that contains cinnamon flavors may irritate the lining of the mouth.