Chewing Gum Use in the Perioperative Period

A synopsis of the latest research on the perioperative use of chewing gum by surgical patients is presented, focusing on the preoperative and postoperative periods. Current data now suggest that the preoperative use of chewing gum does not adversely affect gastric emptying and that the postoperative use of chewing gum may actually aid recovery from some forms of major surgery. Additionally, the use of chewing gum may increase alertness and serve to reduce stress, as well as offer important oral health benefits.