Chewing sugar free gum with Xylitol is actually beneficial for your teeth, as it stimulates saliva flow and Xylitol helps fight bacteria in the mouth. 5 minutes chewing after each snack will help control plaque buildup. Look for sugar free chewing gum, preferably with Xylitol (such as Trident). Ask your dentist first if you have TMJ (jaw) problems. Xylitol has been used in Europe for decades, and it has been scientifically proven to fight the bad bacteria in the mouth that can cause tooth decay. Xylitol is a sugar-free sweetener derived from natural sources, and is also produced in the human body as a by-product of a normal metabolism.