Why Can't You Chew Gum with Braces?
Chewing gum and braces are a recipe for disaster. While it might seem like a minor inconvenience, there are several compelling reasons why your orthodontist strongly advises against chewing gum while wearing braces. Ignoring this advice can lead to costly repairs and prolonged treatment time. Let's explore the reasons in detail.
Can Braces Break from Chewing Gum?
Yes, chewing gum can absolutely damage your braces. The sticky nature of gum can pull on brackets, wires, and bands, potentially causing them to become loose, break, or even detach entirely. This necessitates a visit to your orthodontist for repairs, adding extra time and expense to your overall treatment. The force exerted while chewing, particularly with tougher gums, is often more than the delicate orthodontic appliances can withstand.
What Happens if Gum Gets Stuck in Braces?
Getting gum stuck in your braces is a common problem, and it's far from harmless. The sugar in gum contributes to plaque buildup, increasing the risk of cavities and gum disease. Removing stuck gum can be difficult, and attempting to do so yourself may damage your braces or irritate your gums. It's crucial to seek help from your orthodontist for safe and effective removal.
Does Chewing Gum Affect Braces Treatment Time?
Repairing brace damage caused by chewing gum inevitably extends the overall treatment time. Each repair visit requires rescheduling appointments, potentially delaying the completion of your orthodontic treatment by several weeks or even months. This adds to the inconvenience and financial burden.
What Kinds of Gum Are Worst for Braces?
All types of chewing gum present a risk to your braces, but some are riskier than others. Harder, more tenacious gums, or those containing sugar alcohols, are especially problematic due to their increased stickiness and potential for damage. Even sugar-free gum isn't recommended, as its sticky texture still poses a threat to your orthodontic work.
What Can I Chew Instead of Gum While Wearing Braces?
If you're struggling with the urge to chew, consider healthier alternatives. Sugar-free hard candies might satisfy the oral stimulation, but be mindful of how hard you bite down to avoid damaging the braces. Alternatively, try chewing on sugar-free xylitol gum, though it's still advisable to do so sparingly and gently. Focus on maintaining good oral hygiene by brushing and flossing regularly, which can further reduce the urge to chew.
Are There Any Other Reasons to Avoid Gum with Braces?
Besides the risk of breakage and damage, chewing gum can also exacerbate existing dental problems. It can contribute to plaque buildup, leading to cavities and gingivitis (gum inflammation). This can prolong healing and make it harder for your teeth to properly align.
In conclusion, avoiding chewing gum entirely while wearing braces is essential for the success of your orthodontic treatment. The potential damage, added expenses, and increased risk of oral health problems significantly outweigh any temporary satisfaction from chewing gum. It's a small sacrifice for a healthy, straight smile.
