There was an interesting article about gum chewing in the New York Times on Sunday October 21, 2012.  Gum chewing helps prevent cavities because it stimulates salivary flow. The author asserts that gum chewing should therefore be encouraged in school.  A very intriguing suggestion but I can’t imagine my teachers when I was in school going for it!

From the article:

“But the best way to ensure that all children take advantage of xylitol gum is to have them chew it in school, in kindergarten and beyond. Ideally, they would chew gum three to five times a day for five minutes each time. Not only will it improve their health and school attendance; but they might actually enjoy it.”

http://opinionator.blogs.nytimes.com/2012/10/20/your-assignment-for-today-chew-gum/?ref=opinion