Can You Chew Gum if You Have Braces?

October 15, 2023
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Dental braces can sometimes feel like a prison designed specifically for your pearly whites. Sure, it promises to better your teeth by aligning them and getting them in shape, but that doesn’t always translate well for your teeth. The metal wires aren’t just constricting, but they also lead to lots of pain and restrictions over time.

You have to give up most of your favorite snacks in order to get the smile of your dreams. But among all the other things you have to give up, bubble gum is probably the hardest.

Patients often ask us if it is possible to chew gum with braces on. While the typical answer is no, epigenetic dentistry is a whole new world with different possibilities and opportunities. To learn more about this, make sure to keep on reading this blog.

Can You Chew Gum With Braces?

Yes, you can chew gum with your braces on. However, it depends on the type of gum you choose. For instance, sugary bubble gums taste delicious, but they’re quite sticky and clingy. It’s common for these types of gums to get stuck to your braces and break them down. Not to mention, the high sugar levels in the gum can also invite unneeded bacteria into your mouth, causing them to settle in and attack the teeth.

This is why it is better to opt for sugar-free gum that isn’t as sticky, nor is it harmful to your enamel. You can try gum that contains xylitol in it for optimum results, as that helps to reduce tooth decay and protects the teeth instead.

What if Braces Break When Chewing Gum?

Traditional metal braces aren’t as strong as they seem. All the wires and metal brackets stuck to your teeth are bound to cause more damage than good. Not to mention, if you bite down on something, particularly hard or rough, the wires can snap and come apart in an instant. That is why with gum, if it gets stuck to the wires or the rubber bands of your braces, pulling it away might lead to a bigger mess.

Epigenetic dental work is a far better alternative to consider. The oral appliances used in this practice are innovative and created in a way that provides relief rather than pain or discomfort. They’re also far sturdier, so there’s no fear of them breaking apart. An AMD™ dentist is well-versed in the correct practices needed to ensure your teeth are straightened in a natural way. That, too, without you having to make huge sacrifices.

Closing Words

To put it in simple words, you can chew gum with braces, but it is better to avoid it as much as you can. However, depending on the type of braces you have, it is best to consult with a dental professional for more insight. If you’re looking for a holistic solution to your dental problems without getting tangled up in complex oral appliances, contact Whole Health Dental Center at (703) 385-6425 or drop by our clinic at 7115 Leesburg Pike, Suite 310, Falls Church, VA 22043.

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