Brands say its like a workout for your facebut researchers arent convinced.
In fact, overdoing it could make your jaw look wider or more square instead of defined.
Thats why some people see changes and others dont.

Westend61 / Getty Images
What the Science Says
Chewing gum can strengthen themasticatory musclesthe muscles that help you chew.
But while these muscles may get stronger, that doesnt mean your jawline will become sharper or more defined.
A small 2018 study looked at how gum chewing affected bite strength in adults with different face shapes.
The study found that chewing increased bite force, especially in people with longer, narrower faces.
These individuals saw the biggest improvement in their ability to chew and grind food.
Chewing gum may also help build strength in your tongue and cheeks.
A 2019 study found that regular gum chewing boosted tongue and cheek pressure, which helped improveswallowingand feeding.
However, those benefits went away when participants stopped chewing.
Even if gum chewing strengthens the muscles used for chewing, it wont change how your jawline looks.
Thats because the muscles involvedmostly in the cheeks and neckdont shape the jawline.
How Chewing Gum Can Help
Some people enjoy chewing gum because they believe it offers several benefits.
Can Chewing Gum Cause Problems?
Chewing gum occasionally is generally safe, but chewing it too often can lead to some health issues.
However, you could gradually enhance your jaw’s definition through a mix of lifestyle changes and nonsurgical methods.
For more noticeable results, surgical options are also available.
Healthy skin can contribute to a more defined jawline over time.
Both treatments offer temporary results, typically lasting a few months, requiring regular maintenance for continued effects.
The results can be permanent if weight is maintained, but multiple sessions are usually needed for optimal results.
Thread lifts:Thread lifts use dissolving sutures under the skin to lift and tighten the jawline and neck.
This non-surgical procedure offers immediate results, withcollagen stimulationimproving skin elasticity over time.
Results last around one to two years before requiring touch-ups.
Surgical Procedures
Surgery can offer a permanent way to shape the jawline.
This ensures you avoid complications and get the best possible results.
2025;17(3):435. doi:10.3390/nu17030435
Oral Health Foundation.Sugar-free chewing gum.
2015;14(6):786-790. doi:10.2174/1871527314666150225143105
National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research.TMD (temporomandibular disorders).
2021;13(11):3827. doi:10.3390/nu13113827
National Institutes of Health.Sun and skin.
American Society of Plastic Surgeons.How to achieve the ultimate jawline.
American Society of Plastic Surgeons.Fat grafting a reliable technique for chin augmentation.