Chewing gum with braces is not strictly forbidden, but it requires caution. Key points to consider

• Most orthodontists advise avoiding gum in general because sticky gum can stick to brackets, wires, and bands, potentially loosening components or bending wires. If gum is chewed, there is a higher risk of gum getting trapped and causing work to be undone.

• If you choose to chew gum, use sugar-free gum to reduce the risk of tooth decay and minimize stickiness. Break the gum into small pieces, chew gently, and remove the gum before eating or when finishing a session with your braces.

• Short-term post-appointment comfort sometimes benefits from sugar-free gum to stimulate saliva, which can help with any minor adjustment tenderness. However, this should be limited and supervised by your orthodontist’s guidance.

Practical guidelines

• Opt for sugar-free gum only. Avoid sticky, sugary, or hard gums.

• Chew in small bites and very slowly; don’t chew aggressively near brackets and wires. Stop if you notice the gum sticking to components or if you feel any loosening.

• Remove gum before brushing, flossing, or eating to prevent picking up debris or transferring sugar to teeth and appliances.

• If you have brackets with braces that are newly placed or in the active alignment phase, many orthodontists prefer you avoid gum entirely until your treatment stabilizes. Always follow your orthodontist’s specific advice.

Bottom line

• Yes, it’s sometimes possible to chew sugar-free gum with braces, but it’s not universally recommended. The safest approach is to limit or avoid gum unless your orthodontist explicitly approves, and if you do chew, use sugar-free gum and be mindful of technique and timing.