When you have braces on your teeth, there’s a whole list of foods and drinks that you can and cannot eat. Soda drinks, caramel, popcorn, pretzels are just some food items that you should avoid. So what about chewing gum? Can you chew gum with braces?
The majority of voices will say that you should avoid chewing gum when you are undergoing braces treatment. When possible, you should avoid bubble gum. However, you may also find some people saying that chewing gum with braces is not a big deal, and you can do it fearlessly. So, what can be deduced from it? Is it okay or not? Keep reading to find out.
Gum and braces: is the connection good or bad?
Chewing gum with ongoing orthodontic treatment is not good because it can have adverse effects on your braces. The problem is the gum’s stickiness that can hold on to wires and brackets, and if you try to remove it forcefully, your wires could bend. Even the slightest bend can shift your teeth, and in case you don’t have time to set an appointment with your orthodontist or don’t notice the bend yourself, a significant shift in teeth can happen. This can result in an elongated treatment and may also cost you more.
For a happy and uninterrupted treatment, it’s best to avoid chewing gum with braces. Missing out on your favorite gum will not be forever, but just for a few months till you have the braces on.
So, when and why is chewing gum with braces okay?
When people say you can chew gum with braces, they mean chewing sugar-free gum.
Sugar-free gum is not sticky like the regular one, so the dangers of bends in the wire are not present. Secondly, due to increased saliva production, sugar-free gums can wash away bad bacteria on the teeth that can cause tooth decay. But the best part lies in reduced pain. When you chew gum, it increases blood flow, and any pain or inflammation you have due to braces can fade away. According to some sources, sugar-free gums can have the same results as flossing; chewing gum after a meal can wash away the food particle stuck on your teeth.
So what’s the point?
Though there are some benefits to chewing sugar-free gum, the risk of damaging your treatment is greater. Therefore it’s best to avoid chewing gum with braces.
The benefits that chewing gum offers can also be achieved by other alternatives. For example, after your meal, use dental floss and use a mouthwash to get way with any particles. Similarly, for pain management after getting braces, use OTC pain relievers or other home remedies like applying a warm moist tea bag to the inflamed area.
SAIR Dental Group can answer any question and provide you a guideline for taking good care of your braces. To schedule an appointment, call us at 832.924.2666.