Orthodontists generally advise against chewing gum with braces, and the reasoning is rooted in the mechanics of the appliance and the nature of the sticky substance. Traditional braces are a complex system of hardware designed to apply precise, consistent force to move teeth into their correct positions. Introducing a chewy, pliable material like gum directly compromises the integrity of this delicate system, leading to delays and complications in the overall treatment timeline.
How Gum Causes Mechanical Damage
The primary concern with chewing gum is the physical, destructive force it exerts on the orthodontic hardware. Chewing creates a cyclical pulling motion that can easily compromise the bond between the brackets and the tooth surface. This constant tugging action can weaken the specialized adhesive, causing the metal or ceramic brackets to pop off entirely, necessitating an unscheduled and time-consuming repair appointment.
The thin, flexible archwire that runs through the brackets is also highly susceptible to damage from sticky gum. The substance can wrap itself around the wire, and the force of chewing can pull the wire out of its precisely positioned slots or bend its shape. Any distortion to the archwire disrupts the calculated force distribution, which halts or reverses the intended tooth movement and delays the ultimate goal of a straight smile.
Even the smaller components of the braces are at risk from the sticky material and constant motion. Gum can dislodge the tiny elastic ligatures that hold the archwire firmly into the bracket slots. Furthermore, the larger metal bands wrapped around the back molar teeth can be strained and pulled away from the tooth surface by the adhesive and chewing forces. Repairing any of these broken or bent components requires extra visits to the orthodontist, which extends the overall duration of the treatment plan.
The Problem of Sticky Residue
Separate from the mechanical forces of chewing, the substance of the gum itself presents significant oral hygiene and health risks. The sticky residue is adept at wrapping itself around the complex, three-dimensional structure of the braces, including the wires, springs, and brackets. This accumulation creates numerous new surfaces and crevices where food particles and bacteria can become trapped, making effective brushing and flossing nearly impossible.
If the gum contains sugar, the trapped residue becomes a direct source of fuel for oral bacteria, leading to accelerated plaque formation in these hard-to-reach areas. The bacteria metabolize the sugar, producing acid that attacks the tooth enamel. Even sugar-free gum can stick to the hardware, trapping existing bacteria and food debris and complicating cleaning.
Trapped plaque significantly increases the risk of decalcification, which presents as white, chalky spots on the tooth enamel after the braces are removed. Decalcification occurs when acid strips calcium and phosphate from the enamel. The difficulty of cleaning around gum-coated brackets makes this process more likely. These spots are often permanent, highlighting the need to avoid anything that complicates maintaining hygiene with braces.
Alternatives for Chewing and Fresh Breath
For those who miss the chewing motion or need to freshen their breath, several alternatives exist that do not pose a threat to the hardware or oral health. To combat bad breath, patients should maintain a rigorous oral hygiene routine, including brushing after every meal and using interdental brushes or floss threaders to clean around the brackets. Drinking plenty of water throughout the day helps to rinse away food debris and odor-causing bacteria.
Sugar-free mints or breath strips offer an easy substitute for freshness without the risks of chewing. Hard candies should be avoided, as biting down on them can damage brackets, so mints should dissolve slowly. Patients who have a strong urge to chew should discuss it with their orthodontist, but the best strategy is to avoid the chewing motion entirely and rely on non-sticky options.