Can You Chew Gum with Braces?

Fresh breath and clean teeth are two things that almost all Australians strive for, and chewing gum is a popular tool to achieve this. But what about if you wear braces? Can you still chew gum to your heart’s content? 

In short, yes, you can chew gum with braces; however, there are a number of factors to keep in mind. While gum itself isn’t off-limits, the type of gum you choose and how you chew it can make a big difference. 

In this article, we’ll explore why chewing gum was once discouraged, how modern gum differs from its traditional counterpart, which types are safe to enjoy, and the situations where it’s best to avoid gum altogether.

Why Was Chewing Gum Traditionally Discouraged?

There is a reason many people remain confused about whether or not it’s safe to chew gum while undergoing braces treatment. Traditionally, chewing gum contained a high sugar content and easily got tangled in the brackets and wires. This, in many cases, caused them to bend and break, resulting in a buildup of plaque and subsequent cavities.

However, modern advancements in gum and a change in taste and preferences for everyday Australians mean that chewing gum is not a prohibited action for those with braces anymore.

Modern Gum vs Traditional Gum 

Over time, chewing gum has morphed and, in modern times, has become much more suitable for everyone, but especially those undergoing dental treatment. 

Traditional chewing gum was made from natural gum bases and was usually packed with artificial sweeteners. This gum was often hard and sticky, making it unsuitable for Australians with braces or other orthodontic appliances such as invisalign aligners. 

Modern chewing gum, however, is different. These days, gum is made using synthetic, pliable gum bases, which are significantly more gentle on teeth and braces. Some even provide a number of oral health benefits. These advancements mean that those undergoing orthodontic treatment can enjoy chewing gum safely while benefiting from fresh breath and reduced plaque buildup. 

Potential Benefits of Chewing Gum with Braces

Braces have benefited from significant technological improvements over time, and no longer come with such a high level of rigidity. You can now enjoy the benefits of chewing gum without worrying about stunting your orthodontic journey. 

There are many oral health benefits from choosing and chewing the right type of gum. Some of the most common include:

• Stimulates Saliva Production: Chewing gum increases the flow of saliva. This helps to neutralise acids in the mouth, reducing the risk of tooth decay and enamel erosion. This is rather helpful as it can be hard to thoroughly clean your teeth with braces. 
• Reduces Food Particles: By chewing gum, you can dislodge built-up food particles trapped around the brackets and wires of your braces. This keeps your mouth cleaner between brushings.
• Freshens Breath: Not only does chewing gum help to reduce bacteria and plaque in your mouth, but it can also help neutralise lingering strong-smelling foods and spices. Build your confidence with fresh breath. 
• Relieves Discomfort: Chewing gum can be a great way to relieve braces pain and other oral discomfort, with the motion of chewing providing gentle pressure that can ease soreness or tension in the jaw and muscles. 
• Supports Oral Health: Modern sugar-free chewing gums often contain xylitol, which can reduce cavity-causing bacteria and promote a healthier oral environment. 

However, remember, not all chewing gum is made equal. Keep this in mind. 

What Types of Chewing Gum Are Safe?

Several types of chewing gum are highly recommended by dentists across Australia, the main three include:

Tips for Chewing Gum Safely with Braces

Now that you know that you can chew gum with braces, let’s talk about how you can do it with safety at the forefront. 

• Check With Your Dentist: Always follow the advice of your orthodontist before choosing any specific gum. They may tell you to avoid it, especially early on.
• Pick Sugar-Free: It is essential that you choose a sugar-free gum while undergoing orthodontic treatment. This type of gum will not get stuck in your braces like its sugary counterpart and is the overall better choice for your oral health.
• Avoid Sugary/Acidic Gum: These types of chewing gum feed bacteria in the mouth, which can erode enamel and cause cavities. Acidic flavourings or additives can weaken enamel over time. 
• Brush Away: Once you have finished chewing your gum, it is recommended that you brush your teeth to remove any food particles or bacteria that can get trapped by the brackets and wires. 
• Don’t Overdo It: Just because you can chew gum doesn’t mean you should make it the primary component of your diet. Try to limit chewing gum to 10-15 minutes in a session; this will reduce any potential pressure on your braces. Taking breaks between chewing will give your jaw time to reset and avoid any oral discomfort.

When to Avoid Chewing Gum Altogether?

While you can safely chew gum while undergoing braces treatment, there are several instances where it is recommended to avoid chewing gum altogether.

These include the following:

• Right after your braces have been fitted or adjusted 
• If you have loose brackets or wires in your braces
• Certain orthodontic appliances, such as expanders, retainers or removable braces
• If the chewing gum is full of sugar or has hard and sticky properties
• During experiences of jaw pain or other dental discomfort 
• Immediately post oral surgery or implant work

It is always essential that you follow the recommendations of your dentist and follow the exact instructions and structure they set out for you. 

Conclusion: Is It Worth the Risk?

At the end of the day, we can cover every aspect of this topic, but the final decision will come down to you and your preferences. Chewing gum while undergoing orthodontic treatment can be safe and even beneficial for your oral journey. 

It is essential that you choose the right gum and avoid any that are sticky, hard, or sugary, as this can cause damage to brackets and wires. A good, dentist-recommended chewing gum can help stimulate saliva, help remove food particles, freshen your breath, and boost confidence. 

Ultimately, weigh up your options and follow your orthodontist’s advice every step of the way.