Can You Chew Gum With a Retainer?

Can you chew gum with a retainer? While it might seem harmless to pop in a stick of gum while wearing a retainer, it’s important to understand how chewing gum affects your orthodontic treatment so you can keep your teeth clean and straight.

Can People With Retainers Chew Gum?

Chewing gum while wearing a retainer isn’t generally recommended, but it is possible in some cases. If you do, understand that it can cause damage and hygiene issues. Gum can stick to the plastic surface of a removable retainer, making it hard to clean. 

With permanent retainers, which are fixed behind your teeth, gum residue on the wire and the hard-to-reach back of your teeth can be very difficult to remove. Dirty retainers collect food particles and bacteria, increasing the risk of plaque buildup and tooth decay.

What Kind of Damage Does Chewing Gum With a Retainer Cause?

Like chewing gum with braces, you can cause significant damage if you chew gum with a retainer in. The constant chewing motion can warp the shape of a removable retainer, making it less effective.

Chewing gum also puts pressure on the wire or adhesive that holds a permanent retainer in place, potentially leading to detachment or misalignment. Permanent retainers can handle normal chewing, but the sticky and stretchy texture of gum puts extra pressure on the wire, which can weaken or damage it over time.

Are There Specific Types of Gum That Are Safe With Retainers?

Sugar-free gum is generally the safest option for retainer wearers. It doesn’t stick as much as regular gum, which reduces the risk of it getting stuck to your appliance. Soft and non-sticky “easy to chew” or “long-lasting” gums that aren’t overly stretchy are also less likely to cause damage.

Gum labeled as “orthodontist-approved” or specifically designed for people with braces or retainers is ideal. These products are designed with special formulas that minimize stickiness and are gentler on dental appliances.

What Should You Do With Your Retainer When You Want To Chew Gum?

It’s best to take your removable retainer out before chewing gum. Put it in a safe place, like its protective case, so it doesn’t get lost or damaged. When you’re done, brush and floss your teeth to remove any sugar or residue before putting the retainer back in.

Remember, while it’s OK to remove your retainer to chew gum occasionally, wearing your retainer as directed by your orthodontist is the most effective way to keep your teeth straight.

How To Get Chewing Gum off of a Retainer

If you’re chewing gum with a retainer and it sticks, follow these steps to remove it safely:

1. Soak your retainer in a bowl of cold water for about 15 minutes.
2. Use your fingers or a soft toothbrush to gently peel or brush off the hardened gum.
3. Once the gum is gone, clean your retainer thoroughly with mild soap and a soft toothbrush.

Finally, check your retainer for any signs of damage or warping. If you notice any issues, contact your orthodontist for advice.

Make Good Decisions if You Chew Gum With a Retainer

You can chew gum with a retainer in — but we don’t recommend it. It’s better to make smart choices and save gum-chewing for times when you’re not wearing your retainer.

If you’re unsure about which types of gum are safe or have questions about your retainer, please contact us at Peterson Family Orthodontics. We’re here to support you every step of the way!