(HealthDay News) -- Chewing sugar-free gum after meals can help your mouth stay fresh and reduce the risk of cavities.

The American Dental Association suggests:

• Chew sugar-free gum for about 20 minutes after a meal to promote saliva production and wash bacteria from teeth.
• Avoid gum that contains sugar.
• Continue to floss regularly and brush with a fluoride toothpaste twice daily.