Chew on this: Gum gets dentists' seal of approval

Last update: September 25, 2007 - 8:47 PM

The latest: The nation's largest dentist group now says gum can be good for you, as long as it's sugar-free.

The American Dental Association (ADA) said on Tuesday that it has awarded its seal of acceptance to the Wrigley sugar-free gums Orbit, Extra and Eclipse -- based on studies partially funded by Wm. Wrigley Jr. Co.

It's the first time the ADA has allowed its seal to appear on gum after clearing it for thousands of other products since 1930.

Three times a day: The ADA said its review of the studies confirms that the three Wrigley gums have been shown to help prevent cavities, reduce plaque acid and strengthen teeth. It said studies submitted by Wrigley showed that chewing those products for 20 minutes three times a day after meals increases saliva production. Saliva, the ADA said, helps neutralize and wash away plaque acid and bathes the teeth in minerals such as calcium, phosphate and fluoride, which are known to strengthen tooth enamel and help prevent cavities.

Clifford Whall, director of the ADA seal of acceptance program, said its council on scientific affairs found the studies, which focused solely on Wrigley products, had followed scientific principles. Wrigley paid $36,000 to submit its evaluation material -- $12,000 per product.

A criticism: Consumer advocate Peter Lurie said the ADA should test other products before issuing such a seal, with the system appearing to be biased in favor of large companies that can afford the clinical studies.

ASSOCIATED PRESS

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