Can Chewing Gum Help Your Voice? Expert Tips from a Voice Therapist

Do you like the sound of your voice? For some, it is a reminder of an accent carried on from their parents. For others, it is a gift to serenade audiences and captivate crowds.

Whether you use your voice to sing, speak publicly, or communicate day to day, keeping it healthy is key. You may have seen videos promoting vocal exercises or tips for hydration—but have you ever wondered if chewing gum could help your voice? Here's what voice experts say.

Chewing gum basics

Chewing items – beyond the need for eating – has been a practice for centuries, but modern chewing gum is made of resin, wax, and elastomer for extra flexibility along with other additives for flavor. As you chew gum, your salivary glands and taste receptors are activated to produce more saliva in your mouth.

Most dentists have lauded the use of chewing gum and its benefits for oral health, especially with sugar-free versions that can be useful for plaque prevention.

How does chewing gum affect your voice?

As mentioned, chewing gum increases the rate and flow of saliva, but can this make your voice better?

Along with reducing dry mouth, this process can also lubricate your vocal cords for better vibrations. Sidney Bodnar, CF, a CEENTA voice and swallowing specialist who practices out of our SouthPark office, explains how chewing gum compares to water when it comes to hydrating your mouth. “Drinking water helps hydrate the body (and subsequently the vocal folds) from a systemic standpoint. However, water actually does not touch the vocal folds as they are covered to protect the airway when you swallow. Saliva and mucous do by contrast, which is why chewing gum can be a helpful way to provide a little extra lubrication for your voice.”

The saliva buildup from chewing gum can also reduce the likelihood of acid reflux that can affect your voice. In addition, some singers have reported feeling more focused while enjoying a piece of gum.

Are there drawbacks to chewing gum too much?

Even though chewing gum can be a nifty trick for vocalists, there are aspects to consider. Overuse of chewing gum can lead to a sore jaw, which can affect your vocal performance or clarity while singing or talking. Timing is also important, as excessive mucus may build up while chewing gum. “I would recommend chewing gum in moderation and maybe not immediately before a vocal performance,” said Ms. Bodnar.

Gum with extra sugar or mint flavoring may leave your mouth feeling drier than when you started, and nicotine gum may irritate the vocal cords rather than provide relief.

According to Ms. Bodnar, your best options for gum are those made with natural citrus flavors. “Citrus flavors are an excellent choice for increasing natural saliva production. Some of our patients who have undergone chemoradiation for head and neck cancer suffer from xerostomia (severe dry mouth), and chewing citrus flavored gum can sometimes be a helpful remedy. It stands to reason this could be helpful for vocalists as well!”

If you enjoy singing in the rain, standing on the stage, or simply sounding better, vocal care is available for you. CEENTA’s team of voice and swallowing specialists are experts in the latest techniques for vocalization, offering vocal exams and therapy for patients in need of additional support.

To schedule your vocal appointment with Sidney Bodnar, CF, at our SouthPark office, call 704-295-3000 today.

This blog is for informational purposes only. For specific medical questions, please consult your doctor.