Chewing gum is a soft, cohesive substance designed to be chewed without being swallowed. .... Chewing gum after a meal replaces brushing and flossing, if that's not possible, to prevent tooth decay and .... Now you see them, now you don't"What happens if you happen to swallow a chewing gum, either by accident or on purpose? Does it remain inside your body for 7 years?