Chewing gum has always been seen as a bit of a taboo, even in Leeds: rude to do in public, banned at school and generally a social no-no. But how wonderful it is to see this gum fighting its corner, whilst having the whole of the dental and medical world behind it? That is certainly not going to go down well in the headmaster’s office. The thing is though, the actual chewing process is considered to be good for the brain, but it is the mouth where all the advantageous action comes. Chewing gum is a good way to keep the teeth and gums clean and healthy. It can stimulate the minerals in the teeth’s enamel, clear the surfaces of acids, whilst helping in the removal of food lodged between the teeth, and by doing all of this, it reduces the causes/chances of bad breath. For the gums, it can increase the blood flow in them and help breakdown bacteria in the mouth. Its most important contribution though comes with the promotion of saliva levels in the mouth. Saliva is the natural defence in the mouth and fights bacteria. By chewing gum, it increases the level of saliva in the mouth and hence, keeps the natural balance in the mouth.