I hear you on the minty burn—some of those gums feel like they’re made for people with cast-iron mouths. I’ve tried those fruit-flavored sugar-free ones too, and honestly, even those can get a bit much if I chew them for long. With my dental work, my hygienist suggested xylitol mints instead of gum. They’re not as harsh, and I don’t get that weird stomach thing after. Not quite the same as chewing, but they help with breath and don’t irritate my mouth. Apple slices are a solid backup... though I admit, sometimes I just want something quick that doesn’t require packing a snack bag everywhere.
- Yeah, I know what you mean about the “minty burn.” Some gums feel like mouthwash in solid form.
- I’ve tried those “gentle” fruit flavors too. They start off okay, but after ten minutes it’s like chewing on a scented candle.
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“my hygienist suggested xylitol mints instead of gum. They’re not as harsh, and I don’t get that weird stomach thing after.”
Same here. Xylitol mints are way easier on my mouth. Gum always gives me jaw fatigue anyway, so mints are less hassle.
- Apple slices are good, but yeah... not exactly pocket-friendly unless you want apple mush everywhere.
- If I’m desperate, I’ll just rinse with water and hope for the best. Not perfect, but no burning or weird aftertaste.
- Honestly, sometimes I just skip it and hope people keep their distance if my breath is questionable.
If anyone ever finds a gum that doesn’t nuke your mouth or make your stomach weird, let me know... until then, it’s mints and crossed fingers for me.
I totally relate to the jaw fatigue thing—chewing gum always ends up making my jaw sore, and sometimes I get that weird queasy feeling too. Xylitol mints have been a game changer for me, plus they’re usually cheaper in bulk than the fancy gums. Honestly, nothing’s perfect, but I’d rather deal with a mild mint than that “mouth on fire” situation. If you’re looking for something budget-friendly, some store brands have xylitol mints now that work just as well as the pricier ones.
I totally relate to the jaw fatigue thing—chewing gum always ends up making my jaw sore, and sometimes I get that weird queasy feeling too.
That’s exactly why I gave up on gum for a while. My jaw was clicking like crazy and honestly, I started feeling like a cow chewing cud. Tried those super-strong mints once and basically felt like I’d licked a pine tree… Not ideal. Do xylitol mints actually help with onion or coffee breath though, or just cover it up for a bit? I’m always paranoid people can still smell last night’s garlic pizza.
I get super self-conscious about garlic or coffee breath too, honestly. I’ve tried xylitol mints and they’re decent, but I feel like they mostly just mask the smell for a bit. If I’ve had something really strong, like onions or garlic, I notice the taste lingers even after a mint. Sometimes I’ll rinse my mouth or eat an apple if I’m really worried. Chewing gum just makes my jaw ache, so I totally relate to ditching it. The paranoia is real though…
