Everyone wants to look their best, both in photographs and otherwise. These days, many young people are turning to an unexpected fitness trick: chewing gum to get a more defined jawline. You may think if you can work out your body, why not your face.
But while it might seem harmless, dentists are raising serious concerns about what this trend could be doing to your mouth
When you chew gum, you're using the masseter, a strong muscle in your jaw. “Some people think that regular chewing can tone the face. You’ll even find jaw exercise tools being sold online that promise a sharp, model-like jawline. However, there is a little truth in it,” says Dr Suman Yadav, Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon, Director Numed Hospital and Healthy Dentzz, Delhi.
Also read | Want sharper cheekbones, defined jawline? Do these 5 exercises three times a week to reduce face fat
She adds, “Chewing activates jaw muscles, and it might make the area look slightly more toned. But it won’t give you a movie-star jawline on its own.”
Talking about the trend, Dr Yadav says, “People are now chewing gum for hours every day, hoping to sculpt their faces. And that’s where things go wrong. We’re seeing more young adults coming in with jaw pain, tooth wear, and even loose dental caps, all because of over-chewing.”
5 reasons chewing gum isn’t the magic remedy you think it is:
1. It barely changes your face: Yes, chewing uses muscles. But the changes are tiny. You won’t get a dramatic jawline just from gum.
2. It can damage your teeth: Even sugar-free gum, if chewed too much, can wear down enamel or loosen crowns and fillings.
3. It puts pressure on your jaw joint: Chewing all day strains the joint that connects your jaw to your skull (TMJ). This can lead to pain, popping sounds, or even difficulty opening your mouth.
4. Your gums can get irritated: Chewing too much exposes your mouth to artificial flavours and sweeteners, which can irritate soft tissues.
5. Cavities can sneak up on you: Sugary gum feeds harmful bacteria. But even healthy gums aren’t risk-free if you chew constantly.
Also read | Enjoy chewing gum? It might have microplastics, says study
How to get a sharper jawline
If you want a more sculpted face, there are safer and more reliable options. Dr Yadav recommends:
- Regular exercise: Losing body fat naturally highlights your bone structure.
- Stay hydrated and eat clean: Too much salt and sugar can make your face puffy.
- Posture and facial exercises: Simple habits like sitting up straight and doing facial yoga can make a noticeable difference.
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