Wearing braces requires changes in habits, especially concerning diet, and chewing gum is often the first item patients are told to avoid. The desire for fresh breath or the simple habit of chewing remains strong throughout orthodontic treatment. Although traditional, sugary, and sticky gum poses a significant risk to the orthodontic hardware and underlying tooth health, not all chewing gum is strictly forbidden. With careful selection, certain types of gum can be incorporated safely, provided they adhere to specific criteria designed to protect the integrity of the braces and the enamel.
Why Gum is Generally Restricted While Wearing Braces
The primary concern with chewing gum is the mechanical damage it can inflict on the delicate orthodontic appliances. Traditional gum is inherently sticky and can easily become wrapped around components like the brackets and archwires. The repetitive act of chewing applies force that can pull a bracket away from the tooth surface or bend an archwire out of position. This damage interferes with the precise movements planned by the orthodontist, potentially extending treatment time and necessitating costly repair visits.
Traditional gum also poses a significant chemical threat to dental health because of its sugar content. When sugar-containing gum is chewed, the residue adheres to the surfaces of the braces, creating a perfect environment for oral bacteria. These bacteria metabolize the sugar and produce acid, which erodes the tooth enamel.
This acid erosion, known as decalcification, causes the tooth to lose minerals, resulting in permanent white spots on the enamel once the braces are removed. The brackets protect the small patch of enamel underneath, meaning the white spots appear as distinct blemishes surrounding the newly straight teeth. This risk of irreversible aesthetic damage makes avoiding sugary gum a foundational rule of orthodontic care.
Criteria for Selecting Safe Orthodontic Gum
Choosing a safe gum relies on two criteria: it must be non-sticking and completely sugar-free. The gum’s texture is important; it should be soft and easily pliable to reduce the pulling force exerted on the brackets and wires during chewing. Hard or brittle gums, or those with a sugary coating, must be avoided because they pose a greater risk of fracturing or sticking aggressively to the appliance.
The safest options are sugar-free gums that incorporate sugar alcohols like xylitol, sorbitol, or erythritol. Xylitol is particularly beneficial and is often recommended by orthodontists because it is non-cariogenic, meaning the bacteria that cause tooth decay cannot metabolize it. Xylitol has also been shown to actively inhibit the growth of Streptococcus mutans, a primary bacterium responsible for acid production.
Chewing any sugar-free gum stimulates the production of saliva, which is a natural defense against decay. Increased saliva flow helps wash away food debris and neutralizes acids present in the mouth, promoting a healthier environment around the braces. Some brands specifically formulate gums to be softer and less adhesive, making them the most suitable choice for individuals with fixed appliances. Even with the safest choices, limit chewing sessions to short periods and always chew gently to prevent accidental damage.
Managing Gum-Related Incidents and Damage
Despite precautions, gum may occasionally become stuck in the braces, requiring careful attention. The first step is to remain calm and assess the location of the stuck gum, avoiding any forceful prodding that could damage the hardware. If the gum is accessible, gently attempt to pull it away from the brackets or wires with clean fingers.
A useful home remedy is using cold to harden the gum, making it less sticky and easier to remove, such as rinsing the mouth with cold water. Alternatively, a gentle rinse with warm water may help dissolve the sugary components of any traditional gum that was accidentally chewed. Dental tools like floss threaders or interdental brushes can be carefully maneuvered to dislodge pieces caught between the wires and teeth.
Following a gum incident, inspect the braces for any signs of damage, such as a loose bracket or a bent wire. If the gum is deeply embedded and cannot be removed with gentle home techniques, or if you suspect the appliance has been damaged, an appointment with the orthodontist is necessary. The orthodontist has specialized tools to safely remove the residue and can check the alignment to ensure treatment remains on track.