The pursuit of a chiseled jawline and overall facial fitness has gained a lot of traction with Gen Z lately. As Callie Holtermann pointed out in her article for the New York Times, “Young men are buying ‘Facial Fitness’ chewing gum that promises to bulk up their jawlines. But dentists say the products are not particularly effective or safe.” You may have noticed some of your younger workers chomping on “Muscle Mango” or “Jacked Watermelon” from brands like Stronger Gum. But are these rock-hard gum workouts really the oral equivalent of two sweaty hours at the gym? Or do the risks outweigh the benefits? Preventative dental care and routine checkups are the best ways to find out and ensure that your employees are not putting themselves in greater peril. At Dentists on Demand, we can deliver those services right to your office.
Chewing Your Way to a Chiseled Jawline May Leave You Down in the Mouth
“A growing number of Gen Z men are seeking out stiff chewing gum from brands that claim their products will build up chewers’ jaw muscles, giving them a more conventionally masculine look,” Holtermann explained. “Teenage boys hoping to improve their attractiveness in ‘looksmaxxing’ communities online are encountering an explosion of gum brands that position their products as the facial equivalent of a Spartan workout routine.”
Dentists who frequently treat conditions such as temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders aren’t necessarily sold on the claims or the efficacy of these products. Many have reported an increase in patients complaining of jaw pain and damaged fillings likely caused by excessive chewing.
“The more pressing issue might be the product’s safety, especially for young people whose jaws are still developing. In a statement, the American Dental Association cautioned that chewing dense gum at length could put people at risk for temporomandibular disorders, which cause pain in the jaw joint and muscles,” Holtermann noted.
The American Dental Association (ADA) also cast doubt on hard gum’s ability to sharpen the jawline as advertised: “Chewing tougher gum may strengthen the masseter muscles, leading to a squarer or wider face shape without improving the undersurface of the jawline.”
People are increasingly convinced that a well-defined jawline not only contributes to aesthetic appeal but also indicates good oral health. While facial exercises and fitness routines have been promoted as a way to achieve this, it’s essential to understand that underlying gum and dental health play a crucial role. At Dentists on Demand, we specialize in providing onsite preventative dental care, helping corporate clients and their employees maintain optimal oral health, which in turn supports their overall facial fitness goals.
The Connection Between Jawline Fitness and Oral Health
The jawline is one of the most prominent features of the face, and its definition can be influenced by several factors, including genetics, age, and oral health. While exercises that target facial muscles can help tone the jawline, the health of the gums and teeth is foundational. Gum disease, tooth loss, and other oral health issues can lead to bone loss in the jaw, affecting its shape and strength.
Gum Health: The Foundation of a Strong Jawline
Gums are the soft tissue that surround and protect the teeth, and they play a critical role in maintaining the bone structure of the jaw. When gums are healthy, they provide strong support for the teeth, which in turn supports the jawbone. However, when gum health is compromised, it can lead to gum recession, inflammation, and even bone loss in severe cases. These conditions can weaken the jawline, making it less defined.
Dental Health: Preserving the Structure of the Jawline
Healthy teeth are essential for a well-defined jawline. Teeth stimulate the jawbone when you chew, helping to maintain bone density. If you lose a tooth or suffer from severe decay, the underlying bone can start to deteriorate, leading to a weaker jawline. Preventative dental care, such as regular cleanings and check-ups, is crucial in preserving your dental health and, by extension, the structure of your jaw.
Facial Fitness Trends and Their Impact on Oral Health
The rise of facial fitness trends by social media influencers, including exercises that target the jawline, have pressured many people to find ways of enhancing their facial profile. While these exercises can be beneficial, they should be approached with caution, especially when considering the impact on oral health. Overexertion or improper techniques can lead to issues such as temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders, which can cause pain and discomfort in the jaw area.
Preventative dental care is not just about keeping your teeth clean; it’s about maintaining the overall health of your mouth, which directly influences your facial fitness. At Dentists on Demand, we understand the importance of a comprehensive approach to oral health. Our onsite services make it easy for employees to receive regular dental check-ups, cleanings, and gum care, all of which contribute to a healthier, more defined jawline.
How Dentists on Demand Can Support Your Jawline Fitness Goals
As a company focused on providing preventative dental care, Dentists on Demand is uniquely positioned to support the jawline fitness goals of your workers. And we can bring this care directly to your office. Your insurance doesn’t cover hard gum. And you don’t want premiums spiking if these chewy workouts go awry. But your plan does cover preventative care that helps mitigate the risks.
- Regular Dental Check-Ups: Routine dental check-ups are essential for identifying and addressing any issues that could affect your jawline. Our team of dental professionals will monitor your gum health, check for signs of gum disease, and ensure that your teeth are in good condition. By catching problems early, we can prevent more serious issues that could lead to jawbone loss.
- Gum Care: Healthy gums are the foundation of a strong jawline. Our onsite services include thorough gum care, including cleanings that remove plaque and tartar buildup, which can lead to gum disease. We also offer advice on maintaining gum health through proper brushing and flossing techniques.
- Education on Oral Health: We believe that informed clients are better equipped to maintain their oral health. As part of our services, we provide educational resources on the importance of oral hygiene, the connection between gum health and jawline strength, and the risks associated with facial fitness trends. Our goal is to empower employees to take charge of their oral health, contributing to a more defined jawline.
- Preventative Treatments: In addition to routine care, we offer a range of preventative treatments designed to protect teeth and gums. This includes fluoride treatments, sealants, and customized advice on diet and lifestyle choices that support oral health.
- Convenience and Accessibility: One of the key advantages of Dentists on Demand is our ability to bring dental care directly to your workplace. This convenience ensures that employees have easy access to the dental care they need, without the hassle of scheduling and commuting to appointments. Regular access to dental care is crucial in maintaining long-term oral health, which in turn supports facial fitness.
A Holistic Approach to Facial Fitness
While the pursuit of a stronger jawline and improved facial fitness is commendable, it’s important to remember that true fitness starts from within. A holistic approach that includes both facial exercises and proper oral health care will yield the best results. At Dentists on Demand, we are committed to helping your employees achieve their facial fitness goals by providing the highest quality preventative dental care.
Our onsite services are designed to meet the needs of corporate clients and their employees, ensuring that everyone has access to the care they need to maintain a healthy, strong jawline. By focusing on preventative care, we can help people preserve the structure of their jaw and support their overall facial fitness journey.
Jawline Fitness and Oral Health Begin with the Dentist
At Dentists on Demand, we understand the connection between jawline fitness and dental health, and we’re here to support your employees every step of the way. Our onsite preventative dental care services are designed to help them maintain healthy gums, strong teeth, and a robust jawline, all of which contribute to a more confident and aesthetically pleasing appearance.
By prioritizing oral health through regular check-ups, gum care, and preventative treatments, your workers can achieve the jawline they’ve always wanted without unnecessary risks. Why not schedule your first pop-up today so we get your teams started down the best path? Or contact us to learn more about how we can help you and your employees maintain optimal oral health and support their facial fitness goals.