Can You Chew Gum With Invisalign And Braces?

If you have Invisalign or braces, you might wonder if you can still enjoy chewing gum. Chewing gum is a popular habit for many people, but it can be a bit tricky when you have orthodontic appliances in your mouth. Let’s explore if it’s safe and what you need to know about chewing gum with Invisalign and braces.

What Are Invisalign and Braces?

Invisalign is a type of clear, removable aligner that straightens your teeth. It is almost invisible, making it a popular choice for people who want a less noticeable option for orthodontic treatment. You wear a set of aligners for about two weeks and then switch to the next set in the series. Over time, these aligners move your teeth into the desired position.

Braces, on the other hand, consist of metal brackets that are glued to your teeth and connected by wires and rubber bands. Braces are more noticeable than Invisalign in SW Calgary and require regular visits to the orthodontist for adjustments. They work by applying constant pressure to your teeth to move them into place gradually.

Chewing Gum with Invisalign

With Invisalign, you can chew gum since you can remove the aligners. While this is true, there are a few things to keep in mind:

• Remove Aligners First: Always remove your Invisalign aligners before chewing gum. Chewing gum with the aligners in can cause them to bend, crack, or stain. The gum can also get stuck to the aligners, which is hard to clean off.
• Stick to Sugar-Free Gum: If you decide to chew gum, choose sugar-free options. Sugar-free gum is better for your teeth because it doesn’t contribute to tooth decay. It also stimulates saliva production, which helps clean your teeth and freshen your breath.
• Chew in Moderation: Even though you can chew gum when your aligners are out, don’t overdo it. Too much gum chewing can tire out your jaw muscles, and you might find it uncomfortable.
• Clean Your Teeth and Aligners: Before putting your aligners back in, make sure to brush and floss your teeth to remove any gum residue. Clean your aligners as well to ensure they stay clear and free of debris.

Chewing Gum with Braces

Chewing gum with braces is a bit more complicated. Here’s why:

1. Gum Can Get Stuck: Gum can easily get stuck in the brackets and wires of your braces. It can be very difficult to remove and might require a trip to the orthodontist. It can also cause discomfort and potentially damage your braces.
2. Risk of Damage: Chewing gum can bend the wires or even pop off the brackets of your braces. It can delay your treatment progress and require extra visits to the dentist near you for repairs.
3. Avoid Sugary Gum: Just like with Invisalign, if you do chew gum, it should be sugar-free. However, even sugar-free gum can get stuck in your braces, so it’s generally best to avoid it altogether.

Alternatives to Chewing Gum

If you’re used to chewing gum and miss it, here are some alternatives that might help:

1. Sugar-Free Mints: These can freshen your breath without the risk of damaging your braces or aligners. Just be sure to choose mints that don’t contain sugar.
2. Crunchy Fruits and Vegetables: Snacking on apples, carrots, and celery can give you a satisfying crunch and help clean your teeth naturally.
3. Drink Water: Drinking plenty of water throughout the day helps keep your mouth clean and your breath fresh. It also prevents dry mouth, which can cause bad breath.
4. Practice Good Oral Hygiene: Brushing and flossing regularly is the best way to keep your mouth healthy and your breath fresh. Use a fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush to avoid damaging your braces near you or aligners.

Talking to Your Orthodontist

If you need to figure out whether you can chew gum with your orthodontic treatment, it’s always best to ask your orthodontist. They can give you personalized advice based on your specific situation. Your orthodontist wants to ensure that your treatment goes smoothly and that your teeth stay healthy, so they will have the best recommendations for you.

Final Words

Chewing gum with Invisalign is possible, but you need to be careful and always remove your aligners first. For braces, it’s generally best to avoid gum to prevent any issues. There are plenty of other ways to keep your breath fresh and your mouth healthy, so you don’t have to feel like you’re missing out.

Always follow the advice of your dentist in SW Calgary, and you’ll be on your way to a beautiful, straight smile in no time. At Richmond Dental Clinic, we have dental experts who can consult on topics like chewing gum after braces and invisalign, and many more. You can come to speak with us regarding your smallest query regarding the dental world.