Wearing braces is a temporary commitment to achieving a straighter smile, requiring adjustments to daily habits. A common question for people undergoing orthodontic treatment concerns chewing gum. The conventional wisdom of avoiding gum entirely is outdated, as the safety of chewing gum depends almost entirely on its specific composition. While traditional sticky gums are generally not advised, certain modern alternatives are perfectly acceptable.
Why Regular Bubble Gum Poses a Risk
Traditional bubble gum is generally not recommended for individuals with orthodontic hardware due to its high adhesiveness and sugar content. The sticky, elastic nature of conventional gum makes it highly likely to become lodged in the intricate components of the braces system. This adherence creates a difficult-to-clean environment where the gum wraps around the small metal or ceramic parts.
When gum gets stuck, the act of chewing can pull and stretch the material, applying unwanted force to the brackets, wires, and bands. This repetitive mechanical stress can lead to the loosening of brackets or the bending and distortion of the archwires. Damaged wires interrupt the precise force needed for tooth movement, potentially delaying the overall treatment timeline and requiring unscheduled repair visits.
Beyond the physical damage, most traditional gums contain significant amounts of sugar. Braces already make oral hygiene more challenging, creating more surfaces where food particles and plaque accumulate. The sugar feeds the harmful bacteria, which then produce acids that erode tooth enamel. This chemical process can lead to tooth decay or demineralization spots, leaving permanent white marks on the teeth once the braces are removed.
Safe Chewing Alternatives
The desire to chew can often be satisfied safely by opting for specific sugar-free gums. These alternatives are formulated to be less sticky and elastic than traditional bubble gums, which reduces the risk of them getting tangled in the wires and brackets. Choosing a softer type of gum also minimizes the force applied to the hardware, making it less likely to cause a bracket to detach or a wire to bend.
A major benefit of sugar-free options is the presence of sugar substitutes like xylitol, a natural sweetener that bacteria cannot metabolize. Xylitol avoids feeding decay-causing bacteria and can actively help reduce their numbers. Chewing any type of gum also stimulates the production of saliva. Saliva acts as a natural cleanser, helping to wash away food debris and neutralize the acids that attack tooth enamel.
To maximize safety, limit chewing to softer, sugar-free varieties for short periods, typically no more than 10 to 15 minutes at a time. This practice allows the benefits of stimulated saliva flow without subjecting the orthodontic appliances to excessive stress. Popular recommended brands include certain sugar-free products from lines like Orbit or Trident, which tend to have a softer texture.
What to Do If Gum Gets Stuck
If gum accidentally becomes lodged in the braces, avoid forceful attempts at removal, which could damage the hardware. A gentle approach is necessary to dislodge the sticky material without compromising the position of the brackets or wires. Rinsing the mouth with warm water can sometimes help soften the gum, making it slightly easier to manipulate.
For pieces stuck between the teeth or around the brackets, a dental tool like a floss threader or an interdental brush can be used carefully to dislodge the gum. Gently using a soft-bristled toothbrush may help break up the residue, but excessive force must be avoided. If the gum cannot be removed easily or if there is visible damage to the wires or brackets after the incident, contact the orthodontist right away for professional assistance.