Is Chewing Gum Bad with Invisalign?

When undergoing Invisalign treatment, patients often wonder whether chewing gum is allowed. While gum may seem harmless, it can interfere with your aligner therapy in several ways.

Gum Can Stick to Aligners

Chewing gum while wearing aligners can cause it to stick to the trays, making them difficult to clean. The sugar or sweeteners in gum may also lead to increased bacteria growth inside your aligners.

Increased Risk of Damage

The constant chewing motion puts stress on aligners, potentially warping or cracking them. Even sugar-free gum can cause this problem.

Removing Aligners Helps, But Consider These Factors

Some patients choose to take out their aligners while chewing gum. While this avoids direct damage, it reduces the amount of time aligners are worn. Since Invisalign requires 20–22 hours of daily wear, frequent gum breaks could slow down your progress.

Healthier Alternatives

Instead of gum, consider sugar-free mints or simply drinking water to keep your mouth fresh. If you must chew gum occasionally, always remove your aligners first and brush before reinserting them.

Overall, chewing gum with Invisalign is not recommended, as it can damage aligners or hinder your results. Sticking to dentist-approved habits will help you achieve a straighter smile faster.