Can You Chew Gum With Braces?

Maintaining dental hygiene with braces can be a chore, and if you're one of the many wearing braces, you know the challenges firsthand. From avoiding certain foods to dealing with the increased need for dental care, it's no wonder that so many questions arise. You may wonder if you can chew gum with braces, and the answer is technically yes, it is probably best to be avoided.

Chewing gum can stimulate the production of saliva, which helps to neutralize acids in the mouth, wash away food particles, and reduce plaque buildup. Saliva also contains calcium and phosphate, which can strengthen tooth enamel. These things help reduce the chance of developing tooth decay, so it's easy to see why many people include gum in their daily routine.

Chewing Gum with Braces

The short answer to whether you can chew gum with braces is yes but you probably shouldn’t. Many dentists agree that chewing gum with braces isn't inherently harmful. But it's crucial to choose the right type of gum and chew it correctly to avoid damaging your braces.

Understanding the Risks of Chewing Gum with Braces

Chewing gum with braces can be risky. Certain types of gum can stick to the brackets and wires, causing them to bend or even break. This not only leads to discomfort but could also extend your treatment time or require costly repairs. Understanding these risks is crucial for anyone sporting braces.

Traditional chewing gums contain sugars and sticky substances that can be particularly harmful. These sugary gums can get lodged in your braces, making them difficult to clean and increasing the risk of dental issues like cavities. The sticky residue can also be challenging to remove, necessitating a visit to your orthodontist.

Types of Gum Suitable for People With Braces

If you're going to chew gum while wearing braces, choosing the right kind is essential. Here are some sugar-free options that are generally safe:

  • Xylitol gum: This type of gum can minimize the stickiness compared to sugar-laden gums and helps fight cavities.

  • Aspartame-based gum: Aspartame is another sugar substitute that won't stick to your braces and helps keep your breath fresh.

  • Gum with sorbitol: Sorbitol is a sugar alcohol that provides sweetness without the harmful effects of sugar.

Chewing any of these options in moderation can help you enjoy gum without compromising your orthodontic treatment.

Tips for Best Practices While Chewing Gum

There are a few things to remember while chewing gum with braces.

Chew Slowly & Carefully

The way you chew gum matters. Chewing slowly and carefully can help prevent any accidental damage to your braces. Avoid aggressive chewing, which can cause the gum to stick to your braces more easily.

Avoid Bubbles

Blowing bubbles can be fun, but you may want to avoid it if you have braces. Blowing bubbles can cause the gum to become more sticky and challenging to remove, increasing the risk of it getting stuck in your braces.

Stay Hydrated

Drinking water while chewing gum can help wash away particles that might stick to your braces. Staying hydrated helps keep your mouth clean.

Rinse After Chewing

After you're done chewing gum, make it a habit to rinse your mouth with water. This helps to remove any small particles that might have stuck to your braces and keeps your mouth clean.

Tips for Maintaining Good Oral Health with Braces

Wearing braces comes with its own set of oral hygiene rules. Here are some tips to keep your teeth and braces in top shape:

  • Brush and floss regularly: Make sure to brush your teeth after every meal and floss at least once daily. Special flossing tools and brushes designed for braces can make this easier.

  • Use mouthwash: An antiseptic mouthwash can help keep your mouth clean and fresh, reducing the risk of gum disease. One important note is that mouthwash shouldn't replace proper brushing and flossing.

  • Avoid sticky and hard foods: Foods like caramel and nuts can damage your braces. Stick to softer options that are less likely to cause issues.

  • Regular dental checkups: Make sure you keep all recommended and scheduled visits to your dentist throughout your orthodontic treatment. This helps ensure your teeth and mouth remain healthy.

You can maintain good oral health throughout your orthodontic treatment by following these guidelines.

Talk to Your Dental Professional

Chewing gum with braces doesn't have to cause you any problems. By choosing suitable types of gum and following best practices, you can enjoy this simple pleasure without compromising your orthodontic treatment. Always consult your orthodontist or dentist for personalized advice, and enjoy your gum responsibly.

Call our team at Shine Dental today if you have any questions about what you should or shouldn't eat with braces. We're happy to provide you with tailored advice.

Braces, Orthodontics, Oral CareJonathan WiebeComment