If you’re one of the many people who wear braces, you know how important it is to maintain good oral hygiene. Brushing and flossing are crucial for keeping your teeth and gums healthy, but there’s another small habit that can make a big difference: chewing gum. However, not all gums are created equal when it comes to wearing braces. In this beginner’s guide, we’ll explore the best gum for braces and what to look for when choosing one.
Why Chew Gum with Braces?
Chewing gum can have several benefits for people who wear braces. It increases saliva production, which helps neutralize acids and wash away food particles that can get stuck in your braces. This can reduce the risk of plaque build-up and tooth decay.
Gum can also help relieve the discomfort of braces by stimulating blood flow to the gums and promoting better jaw alignment. It can also freshen your breath, which can be particularly helpful if you’re worried about bad breath caused by braces.
What to Look for in Gum for Braces
Not all gums are suitable for people with braces. When choosing a gum to chew, here are a few things to keep in mind:
– Sugar-free: Gum that contains sugar can stick to your braces and cause tooth decay. Look for sugar-free gum instead.
– Soft: Hard or sticky gum can damage your braces or get stuck in them, which can be both uncomfortable and difficult to remove. Choose soft gum that’s easy to chew.
– Orthodontist-approved: There are many different types of gum on the market, so it’s best to ask your orthodontist for recommendations on which brands and flavors are safe to use with braces.
Best Gum for Braces
Here are our top picks for the best gum to chew with braces:
1. Trident: Trident is a popular sugar-free gum that’s safe for people with braces. It comes in a variety of flavors and is available at most supermarkets and drugstores.
2. Orbit: Another sugar-free gum, Orbit is known for its long-lasting flavor and soft texture that won’t damage braces. It’s also widely available and comes in many flavors.
3. Spry: Spry gum is sweetened with xylitol, which is a natural sweetener that can reduce the risk of tooth decay. It’s also soft and safe to use with braces.
4. B-Fresh: B-Fresh gum is a little harder to find than other brands, but it’s worth seeking out if you’re looking for a gum that’s specifically designed for people with braces. It’s soft and gentle on braces, and it’s fortified with vitamins and minerals to promote good oral health.
5. Dr. John’s: Dr. John’s gum is another xylitol-sweetened brand that’s safe for people with braces. It comes in a variety of flavors, and the company also makes toothpaste and mouthwash for a complete oral care routine.
Final Thoughts
Chewing gum can be a helpful addition to your oral hygiene routine when you have braces, but it’s important to choose the right brand and flavor. Look for sugar-free, soft gum that’s orthodontist-approved. Trident, Orbit, Spry, B-Fresh, and Dr. John’s are all great options to consider. Happy chewing!
