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The Impact of Chewing Gum on Bad Breath During Smartphone Use

In an era where smartphones have become an integral part of everyday life, many of us are unaware of the negative health effects associated with extended usage. As we scroll through our feeds or browse the web, issues such as poor posture, dry eyes, and even psychological stress can arise. Moreover, recent findings suggest that stressing out while using your smartphone could be leading to another overlooked problem: bad breath.

Recent Research by Lotte

Lotte Co., Ltd., headquartered in Shinjuku, Tokyo, has focused on the health benefits of chewing as part of its ongoing research. A new study delivered significant insights into the relationship between smartphone use and the increase of oral malodor due to the presence of volatile sulfur compounds (VSC). The findings were recently published in the renowned journal "Pharmacology and Therapy" (Volume 53, Issue 9, 2025).

The Background of the Study

Research has indicated a correlation between smartphone use and psychological stress, which in turn leads to dry mouth - a well-known contributor to bad breath. As such, the use of smartphones could potentially exacerbate oral malodor. On the flip side, chewing gum has been recognized for its ability to alleviate stress and boost saliva production. This led researchers to explore whether gum chewing during smartphone use could mitigate the effects of bad breath.

Study Methodology

To investigate this, Lotte conducted a randomized crossover study involving 26 healthy adults aged 20 to 60. Participants were subjected to two conditions: using a smartphone for 30 minutes while chewing gum and using a smartphone without chewing gum. The primary aim was to measure changes in VSC levels before and after smartphone use.

Using advanced PTR-ToF-MS technology, which allows for real-time quantification of multiple volatile organic compounds, researchers could accurately capture the impact of smartphone use and the potential alleviating effects of gum chewing on breath odor.

Key Findings

Results showed that after 30 minutes of smartphone usage, there was a statistically significant increase in VSC levels. In contrast, when participants chewed gum during this period, the rise in oral odor components was notably suppressed. This suggests that gum chewing acts as a beneficial countermeasure against the bad breath exacerbated by smartphone use.

Study Overview:

• - Published In: Pharmacology and Therapy (2025)
• - Authors: Teppei Shintani, Misaki Matsui, Norifumi Sugano, Kenji Osawa, Kazuto Okabayashi, Tomotaka Takeda.

Conclusions and Future Directions

This groundbreaking study not only underscores the association between prolonged smartphone usage and bad breath but also highlights the significant role that chewing gum can play in combating this issue. Lotte aims to continue its research in collaboration with various municipalities and research institutions to delve deeper into the health benefits of chewing.

Known affectionately as the “loving partner of the mouth,” Lotte remains committed to advancing the understanding and efficacy of chewing through their dedicated Chewing Research Division.

For further exploration on the impacts of chewing on mental and physical health, be sure to visit the Chewing Research Office website.

About Lotte

Lotte is a prominent company that strives to enrich lives and boost health through innovative products that encourage chewing, enhancing both enjoyment and well-being.

For more about Lotte, visit their official website.