chewers

Chewers is a term used to describe individuals or animals that engage in chewing. In everyday use it most often refers to people who chew tobacco or chewing gum, but it can also describe nonhuman beings that chew plant matter or objects. The meaning is determined by context.

Tobacco chewers: This includes products such as loose-leaf chewing tobacco, plugs, twists, and sachets. Users typically place the product between the cheek or gum and the teeth, often spitting. Historically widespread in many regions, patterns of use vary by culture and regulation. Health risks include cancers of the oral cavity and esophagus, gum disease, tooth decay, tooth loss, nicotine dependence, and cardiovascular effects. Public health responses include labeling, age restrictions, taxation, and limits on advertising. Cessation support encompasses nicotine replacement therapy, prescription medications, and behavioral counseling.

Gum chewers: Chewing gum can be sugar-containing or sugar-free. Sugar in gum can promote dental caries, while sugar-free formulations—especially those containing xylitol—may reduce caries risk. Chewing gum increases saliva flow, which can help neutralize acids and freshen breath. Some people chew gum to manage hunger, stress, or throat symptoms. Excessive chewing can lead to jaw discomfort or temporomandibular issues in sensitive individuals.

Other cultural practices: In some regions, people chew areca nut with betel leaf as part of traditional practices. This habit carries significant oral cancer risk and is a distinct category from tobacco or gum chewing.

In animals, many species engage in chewing as part of feeding or behavior, such as rodents and ruminants or wood-chewers like beavers. The term is informal and usage varies by context.