Getting braces is a big step towards a perfect smile, but it comes with some lifestyle adjustments. One of the most common questions I had (and I bet you do too!) was about chewing gum. Can you even chew gum with braces? The good news is, yes, you can! You just need to choose the right kind. Some gums are specifically designed to be braces-friendly, helping you keep your breath fresh without damaging your orthodontics. I’ve rounded up some of the best options, so you can keep chewing without worry.
Product Overview/Quick Summary:
- PUR Gum: Aspartame-free, vegan, gluten-free.
- Spry Xylitol Gum: Sugar-free, promotes oral health.
- Orbit White Gum: Helps maintain teeth whiteness.
- Trident Sugar-Free Gum: Classic flavor, sugar-free.
- Xlear Spry Dental Defense Gum: Added calcium, strengthens teeth.
Top 5 Best Chewing Gum For Braces
1. PUR Gum
PUR Gum is a popular choice for anyone looking for a healthier chewing gum option. It’s made without aspartame and is also vegan and gluten-free, making it a great choice for those with dietary restrictions. The flavors are surprisingly long-lasting, and it does a good job of keeping breath fresh.
Pros:
- ✅ Aspartame-free, vegan, and gluten-free.
- ✅ Long-lasting flavor.
- ✅ Variety of flavors available.
Cons:
- ❌ Can become hard if chewed for too long.
- ❌ Some flavors are not as strong as others.
- ❌ Slightly more expensive than traditional gum.
Verdict: PUR Gum is a solid choice if you’re looking for a healthier alternative to traditional chewing gum and are mindful of ingredients.
2. Spry Xylitol Gum
Spry Xylitol Gum is all about oral health. This gum is sugar-free and uses xylitol as a sweetener, which is known to help prevent tooth decay. It’s a great option if you’re looking for a gum that not only freshens breath but also supports your dental hygiene while wearing braces.
Pros:
- ✅ Sugar-free and sweetened with xylitol.
- ✅ Helps prevent tooth decay.
- ✅ Freshens breath effectively.
Cons:
- ❌ Flavor doesn’t last as long as some other gums.
- ❌ Some people may not like the taste of xylitol.
- ❌ Texture can become a bit grainy after chewing for a while.
Verdict: If you’re prioritizing oral health and don’t mind a slightly shorter-lasting flavor, Spry Xylitol Gum is an excellent choice.
3. Orbit White Gum
Orbit White Gum is designed to help maintain the whiteness of your teeth. It’s sugar-free, so it won’t contribute to tooth decay, and it has a refreshing minty flavor. I found that it definitely helped keep my breath fresh, and the flavor lasted a decent amount of time.
Pros:
- ✅ Helps maintain teeth whiteness.
- ✅ Sugar-free.
- ✅ Refreshing minty flavor.
Cons:
- ❌ Contains artificial sweeteners.
- ❌ Flavor can fade relatively quickly.
- ❌ Not as focused on oral health benefits as some other options.
Verdict: Orbit White Gum is a good option if you’re mainly concerned about keeping your breath fresh and maintaining teeth whiteness while avoiding sugar.
4. Trident Sugar-Free Gum
Trident Sugar-Free Gum is a classic choice that’s widely available and comes in many flavors. It’s a reliable option for freshening breath without the harmful effects of sugar. The original flavors are always a safe bet, and they tend to hold up well during chewing.
Pros:
- ✅ Sugar-free.
- ✅ Wide variety of flavors.
- ✅ Easily accessible and affordable.
Cons:
- ❌ Contains artificial sweeteners.
- ❌ Not specifically designed for oral health benefits.
- ❌ Some flavors may not last very long.
Verdict: Trident Sugar-Free Gum is a convenient and budget-friendly option for everyday breath freshening.
5. Xlear Spry Dental Defense Gum
Xlear Spry Dental Defense Gum takes oral health a step further by including calcium in its formula. Like other Spry gums, it uses xylitol as a sweetener, promoting a healthier mouth environment. The added calcium is a nice bonus for strengthening teeth.
Pros:
- ✅ Sugar-free and sweetened with xylitol.
- ✅ Contains added calcium for stronger teeth.
- ✅ Promotes overall dental health.
Cons:
- ❌ Flavor may not appeal to everyone.
- ❌ Can be slightly more expensive.
- ❌ Texture can become a bit soft after prolonged chewing.
Verdict: Xlear Spry Dental Defense Gum is an excellent choice if you’re looking for a gum that actively supports your dental health with the added benefit of calcium.
Buying Guide
Choosing the right chewing gum when you have braces doesn’t have to be complicated. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
- Sugar-Free is Key: Always opt for sugar-free gum. Sugar can lead to plaque buildup around your braces, increasing the risk of cavities.
- Look for Xylitol: Xylitol is a natural sweetener that can actually help prevent tooth decay. Gums with xylitol are a great choice for maintaining oral health.
- Consider the Texture: Some gums can become very sticky and may get caught in your braces. Look for gums that are known to be less sticky or specifically designed for people with braces.
- Flavor Longevity: Think about how long you want the flavor to last. Some gums offer longer-lasting flavors than others.
- Read Reviews: Before buying a new type of gum, check online reviews to see what other people with braces have to say about it.
- Talk to Your Orthodontist: When in doubt, ask your orthodontist for recommendations. They can provide personalized advice based on your specific needs and the type of braces you have.
FAQs
1. Can chewing gum damage my braces?
Yes, regular gum can damage your braces. That’s why it’s best to choose sugar-free gum that is specifically designed to be less sticky and safer for braces.
2. How often can I chew gum with braces?
You can chew sugar-free gum in moderation. Chewing for about 15-20 minutes after meals can help stimulate saliva production, which aids in cleaning your teeth. However, avoid chewing gum excessively.
3. What are the benefits of chewing gum with braces?
Chewing sugar-free gum can help freshen your breath, stimulate saliva production (which helps clean your teeth), and even relieve some of the pressure or discomfort from braces adjustments.
4. Are there any ingredients I should avoid in chewing gum if I have braces?
Definitely avoid sugar. Also, be cautious of gums with very sticky ingredients or artificial colors that could stain your teeth or braces.
5. Where can I buy braces-friendly chewing gum?
You can find braces-friendly chewing gum at most drugstores, supermarkets, and online retailers like Amazon. Just look for sugar-free options or those specifically marketed as safe for braces.
Conclusion
Finding the right chewing gum for braces can make a big difference in your oral hygiene and overall comfort. By choosing sugar-free options and considering the texture and ingredients, you can enjoy chewing gum without worrying about damaging your braces. Remember to always practice moderation and maintain a good oral hygiene routine for a healthy and happy smile.
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