Orthodontic patients often wonder if they must completely give up chewing gum while wearing braces. The answer is that people with braces can enjoy gum, but only if they choose the right type. Traditional, sugar-filled, or overly sticky gums are strongly discouraged due to the risks they pose to the hardware and oral health. Opting for a soft, sugar-free variety is necessary to maintain the integrity of the appliances and the cleanliness of the mouth.
Understanding the Mechanical Risks
Traditional, sticky chewing gum poses a significant physical threat to orthodontic appliances. The gum’s adhesive nature can easily latch onto the small metal or ceramic brackets cemented to the teeth, pulling them loose or completely off. This unexpected breakage requires an emergency visit to the orthodontist and can disrupt the treatment schedule.
The continuous, forceful chewing action required for firm or taffy-like gum can also place undue stress on the archwires that connect the brackets. This pressure may bend or distort the wires, potentially misaligning teeth and slowing overall progress. Sticky gum can also wrap itself around the wires and components, becoming difficult to clean and increasing the risk of plaque buildup in inaccessible areas.
Why Sugar-Free Gum Is Mandatory
The distinction between regular and sugar-free gum is important for maintaining dental health during orthodontic treatment. Gum containing sugar provides a direct food source for the Streptococcus mutans bacteria naturally present in the mouth. These bacteria metabolize the sugar and produce acids that erode tooth enamel, a process known as demineralization.
Food debris and sugar residue are easily trapped around the brackets, significantly accelerating the risk of cavities and leaving permanent white spots on the teeth. Conversely, sugar-free gums use sweeteners like Xylitol, which bacteria cannot metabolize, effectively starving the microbes. The American Dental Association (ADA) supports the use of sugar-free gum, especially those carrying its Seal of Acceptance, as a tool to reduce the risk of tooth decay.
Using Gum for Orthodontic Relief
Chewing sugar-free gum offers functional benefits that support oral health and comfort for patients with braces. The act of chewing dramatically increases the production of saliva, which is the body’s natural defense mechanism against plaque and acid. Increased saliva flow acts like a self-cleaning rinse, washing away food particles and neutralizing harmful acids that accumulate around the brackets and wires.
Gentle chewing can also provide a method for managing the soreness that often follows an orthodontic adjustment appointment. The mild pressure stimulates blood flow to the periodontal ligaments surrounding the teeth, which helps alleviate discomfort. Studies indicate that chewing gum can offer significant pain relief, making it a convenient alternative for managing temporary orthodontic pain.