The primary reason for recommending chewing gum is for any xylitol content. Xylitol can be purchased at a health food store and used as a substitute for sugar or used on a toothbrush for direct application. Some toothpastes now contain xylitol. Personally, I use regular toothpaste, but after placing the toothpaste on the toothbrush, dip the toothbrush in a small container of xylitol and the sugar sticks to the toothpaste. Then brush away several times a day.<<LengthOK>>