Invisalign aligners have changed orthodontic treatment because they are clear plastic trays instead of traditional braces. But a lot of patients are asking themselves: “Can you chew gum with Invisalign?” The quick answer is NO – you should not chew gum while you have Invisalign in your mouth. But why? And what are the options?
In this post, we’ll discuss what happens when you chew gum with Invisalign, what it can do to your treatment, alternatives to consider, and tips for maintaining proper oral hygiene.
Can You Chew Gum with Invisalign?
Quick Quiz: Is Gum OK with Invisalign?
Choose the best answer:
Pros & Cons of Chewing Gum with Invisalign
💡 Expert Tip
Always remove your Invisalign before chewing gum to prevent warping or discoloration. If you need fresh breath, opt for sugar-free mints instead.
FAQs
Not recommended while wearing aligners, but okay if removed first.
It can cause aligners to warp or stick, leading to poor fit and hygiene issues.
Why You Should Not Chew Gum with Invisalign
1. Gum Can Stick to Invisalign Aligners

Chewing gum is sticky and may stick quite well to the plastic of your Invisalign trays. This can be difficult to remove and may damage or warp the aligners. Chewing on gum while wearing Invisalign and you may be thinking, ‘Can you chew gum with Invisalign? The short answer is no, as chewing gum can interfere with treatment.
2. Gum Can Warp or Damage Aligners

The Invisalign clear aligners are constructed of flexible, durable SmartTrack material, but they were not designed for the repeated pressure and chewing of gum. Prolonged chewing can change the shape of the aligners, which can impact the fit and the treatment. This is another major reason why the answer to “Can you chew gum with Invisalign?” is no.
3. Increased Risk of Bacteria and Plaque Build-up

Invisalign and Gum Sugar and bacteria can become trapped between your aligners and teeth if you chew gum while wearing them, which can result in:
- Increased plaque formation
- Bad breath
- Increased risk of tooth decay and gum disease
It resurfaces time and time again, the age-old question, “Can you chew gum with Invisalign?, They’re not aware of the fact that bacteria can build up on it and thus impact their oral hygiene.
4. Slower Treatment Progress

Every series of Invisalign trays is custom-made to move your teeth into position. If the aligners are damaged or distorted by chewing gum, then treatment may take longer, and new aligners will be required. If you’re wondering, “Can you chew gum with Invisalign?”, keep in mind that skipping gum will ensure that your treatment doesn’t take you off track.
What If You Accidentally Chew Gum with Invisalign?
If, for some reason, you chew gum while you’re still in an aligner, then the following are the steps you should take:
- Take your aligners out immediately to avoid further damage.
- Inspect for any obvious gum remnants and rinse the aligners in lukewarm water.
- If it has deposited on your carpet surface, you can use a soft toothbrush to eradicate the gum.
- Once cleaned, soak your aligners in Invisalign cleaning crystals or denture cleaner to remove all effects.
- Talk to your orthodontist if the aligners don’t fit or seem broken.
And, for those of you who are wondering,g “Can you chew gum with Invisalign?” This could be a situation to be prevented to achieve the best therapeutic results.
Safe Alternatives to Chewing Gum with Invisalign

If you’re a gum chewer for fresh breath, stress relief, or a busy mouth, here are Invisalign-friendly alternatives:
Alternative | Benefits | Recommended? |
---|---|---|
Sugar-Free Mints | Freshens breath without sticking to aligners | Yes |
Invisalign Chewies | Helps seat aligners properly | Yes |
Xylitol Lozenges | Kills bacteria, prevents cavities | Yes |
Drinking Water | Keeps mouth hydrated and fresh | Yes |
Sugar-Free Gum | Only when aligners are removed | Only when removed |
1. Sugar-Free Mints
Sugar-free mints are better than gum. Opt for xylitol mints that keep cavities at bay and leave their breath fresh. Instead of “Can you chew gum with Invisalign?, choose a safer breath mint instead.
2. Invisalign Chewies
Chewies are small, pliant cylinders made of medical-grade silicone, and they help to ensure that your aligners are seated firmly on your teeth. They also create a similar chewing sensation without causing damage to your aligners, so they are a good option if you’ve been asking yourself, “Can you chew gum with Invisalign?”
3. Xylitol Lozenges
Xylitol is a sweetener that occurs naturally and that combats bacteria in the mouth. Lozenges dissolve slowly and micromanage the mouth while they give a clean taste.
4. Drinking Water
Keeping your mouth moist may reduce dry mouth and bad breath, which means you’ll chew gum less. If you’re still wondering, “Can you chew gum with Invisalign?”, just remember water is always a safe bet.
Can You Chew Sugar-Free Gum with Invisalign?

The fact is, most people think that sugar-free gum is acceptable with Invisalign. Though not as sticky as regular gum, it can nonetheless:
- Stick to aligners (depending on the brand)
- Causes warping due to continuous chewing
- Interfere with aligner seating
Best Practice:
If you want to chew sugar-free gum, make sure to take out your Invisalign instead of chewing with it in your mouth, rinse your mouth out, and then put your aligners back in.
So the next time someone asks, can you chew gum with Invisalign? The answer is still “No,” unless it is chewed without aligners in place.”
Tips for Maintaining Invisalign Aligners

For preserving the quality of your aligners and to prevent damage from biting habits, abide by these recommendations:
1. Take out Aligners When Snacking or Eating Anything!
- Only water is allowed in the teeth while wearing Invisalign.
- Never eat or chew gum while wearing your aligners.
2. Clean Aligners Regularly
- Deep clean with Invisalign Cleaning Crystals.
- Softly brush aligners with a soft toothbrush and mild soap.
- Don’t use hot water, which can warp the plastic.
3. Avoid Sugary and Sticky Foods
- Limit sugar intake to avoid bacteria from forming under aligners.
- Opt for xylitol-based substitutes for fresh breath.
4. Store Aligners in Case When Not in Use
- Each time you eat or chew gum, take your aligners out and place them in your case.
- This way, they don’t get lost, dirty, or damaged.
The Myth of The Invisalign Chewing Gum

Myths of the Chewing Gum with Invisalign! Here are some of the most commonly circulating misunderstandings:
Myth | Truth |
---|---|
Invisalign Is Safe With Sugar-Free Chewing Gum | Gum can adhere to aligners and contribute to warping. |
Treatment can be accelerated with gum | It ends up delaying treatment if aligners distort. |
Aligners must be rinsed with water and with Invisalign crystals. | Aligners should be cleaned with water and Invisalign crystals. |
Hard gum won’t affect Invisalign | Any kind of chewing can stress and damage aligners. |
Conclusion
So, can you chew gum with Invisalign? The short answer is no – gum can make a mess of and damage your aligners, slowing down your treatment. If you need a replacement, sugar-free mints, Invisalign chewies, and xylitol lozenges make for much better alternatives.
For the best possible Invisalign treatment, always take out your aligners before you eat anything and clean your teeth after eating. Adhere to your orthodontist’s instructions to keep your treatment on course and promote the perfect smile you are striving for!
By following these tips, you should be able to maintain Invisalign’s aligners clean, sound, and effective during the whole of your treatment.
Also Read>>>Invisalign vs Braces? The Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Right Option in 2025!
Also Read>>>How Much Do Braces Cost in 2025? A Complete Price Breakdown
Detailed FAQ RELATED TO Can You Chew Gum with Invisalign
Gum and Invisalign Compatibility
What is the best gum for Invisalign?
No gum should be chewed while wearing Invisalign, but if you do need to chew gum, always remember to remove your aligners first. Sugar-free gum is the best choice with aligners.
Top chewing gum choices when Invisalign is out:
Sugar-Free Gum – Helps to lower tooth decay and has no sticky mess.
Xylitol Gum – Prevents the growth of bacteria and freshens breath.
Soft Chewing Gum – Minimizes pressure on teeth when aligners are removed.
Chewing gum with Invisalign: Here are some tips:
Always take out aligners before eating.
Brush and rinse your mouth before putting the aligners back in.
Say no to sugary or sticky gums, which can cause cavities.
For aligner breath, try mints or xylitol lozenges.
Is there gum that doesn’t stick to dental work?
Yes, sugar-free gums like Trident, Orbit, and Ice Breakers Ice Cubes are formulated to be less sticky and are good for dental work such as fillings, crowns, and braces.
Best non-sticky gum for dental care:
Trident Sugar Free Gum -Has xylitol and is easy for dental work.
Orbit Sugar-Free Gum – ADA-accepted and less likely to adhere.
Breakers Ice Cubes – To share with your friends and to have fun. Build-Up.
Spry Xylitol Gum Spearmint -Protects teeth and is easy on dental work.
Tips for safe chewing:
Choose only xylitol-sweetened sugar-free gum instead.
Also, avoid sticky, chewy, or bubble gum.
When gum is stuck on clothing, rinse with warm water and peel off gently.
How to get rid of chewing gum on Invisalign?
If you get gum on your aligners, remove them and rinse with warm water and a soft toothbrush as soon as possible. Don’t use hot water as it can warp the form trays.
How to get gum off Invisalign:
Warm Water Flush – Helps dissolve gum for easy removal.
Soft Toothbrush – Brush off the gum softly.
Dish Soap or Invisalign Cleaner – Dissolves away adhesive.
Retainer Cleaner Soak – Will assist in getting rid of any lingering gum.
No harsh chemicals – Never use alcohol or bleach, they will damage the aligners.
To avoid aligner sticking, remove them before you chew gum.
Alternatives to Chewing Gum
What is a good substitute for chewing gum?
Sugar-free mints, xylitol lozenges, crunchy fruits, or orthodontic chewies, which can freshen breath and help produce saliva, make good alternatives to gum.
With that, here are some of the best alternatives to gum:
Sugar Free Mints (Altoids, Ice Breakers, etc.) – Keep your breath fresh.
Xylitol Lozenges – Kills bacteria and cavity-causing germs.
Crunchy Fruits (Apples, Carrots, Celery): Cleans teeth as a dog chews.
Orthodontic Chewies – Aid in the seating of clear aligners.
Hydrating the Mouth – Drinking water also keeps the mouth from drying and becoming malodorous.
Skip the chewy or sugary substitutes to support the health of your teeth.
How do you prevent gum disease with Invisalign?
You do not want to develop gum disease with Invisalign, It is important to have excellent oral care and make sure you brush and floss, and clean your aligners every day to get rid of plaque and bacteria.
Here are the top things you can do to avoid gum disease with Invisalign:
Brush Following Every Meal – It’s important to clean your teeth after you eat.
Floss every day – Helps avoid plaque buildup in between teeth.
Wash Your Aligners – Wash your aligners with an antibacterial soap or Invisalign cleaning crystals.
Anti-Bacterial Mouth Wash – Kills bacteria and freshens breath.
Keep Up With The Liquid Intake – When you drink water, you are helping to wash the bacteria down.
Maintain Regular Visits with Your Dentist – Professional cleanings are the best way to fight against gum disease.
Desserts and sweetened beverages can be replaced by low-sugar options to help prevent plaque from forming.
Chewing and Eating with Invisalign
Is it okay to bite down on my Invisalign?
No, biting on Invisalign can result in damage, deformation, or cracking of your Invisalign, which may compromise your results.
Why You Shouldn’t Bite on Invisalign:
Deteriorates Plastic – Fractures are due to repeated pressure.
Poor Fit – When you bite down, you can shift the aligners, and they will not fit properly.
Slower Tooth Migration – If a tray doesn’t fit well, it can take longer to align teeth.
Risk of Cracks – Replacements can be expensive.
Unwanted Pressure on the teeth – May lead to Pain or sensitivity.
Simply use Invisalign chewies to fully seat your aligners in place.
Can you eat gummies with Invisalign?
No, don’t eat gummies with Invisalign, as they can get stuck to your aligners and invite decay.
Why you shouldn’t eat gummies while wearing Invisalign:
Sticky and Difficult to Clean – Sticks between aligners and teeth.
High In Sugar – Causes plaque and tooth decay.
Warp May Aligners Chewing – pressure changes clear Invisalign.
Interrupts Care – Interferes with the appropriate tooth position.
Stimulates Bacterial Growth – Sugar deposits can lead to bad breath and gum issues.
Never eat with your Invisalign, and make sure you clean your teeth before reapplying.
Can you eat hard candy with Invisalign?
No, you shouldn’t eat hard candy with Invisalign in, because hard candy can crack, stain, or damage the aligners.
Why hard candy is no good for Invisalign:
Hard candy puts pressure on plastic and can crack aligners
From Aligners to Sticks – Sugar from breakfast gaps is unsafe for your teeth. You can’t swallow toothpaste. Tooth-friendly breakfast.
Stains – Invisalign trays are dyed with candy of any color.
Traps : Bacteria-Sugar and saliva combine to hide bacteria.
May Cause Treatment Delays – Broken aligners may require re-sizing or replacement.
Always take the aligners out when eating and rinse your mouth after whenever you put them back in.
Can I drink soda with Invisalign?
No, you shouldn’t drink soda with Invisalign, as it can stain, erode, or damage your teeth.
Why soda is bad with Invisalign:
Sugar Free – Won’t trap sugar on your teeth or in your trays.
Highly acidic – can promote cavities by eroding enamel.
Stains Invisalign – Invisalign will become stained by dark sodas.
Promotes Bacteria Growth – Bacteria thrive on sugar, and it translates to stink breath.
Residue – Can Cause Aligners to Feel Grimy and Uncomfortable.
If you do drink soda, take out your aligners and brush your teeth before putting them back in.
How do you snack on Invisalign?
You’ll need to take them out for snacks, too, since snacking when you’re wearing Invisalign can harm the aligners and compromise treatment.
Snacking with Invisalign best practices:
Take Out Aligners – No more food crunching.
Plan for Healthy Munchies – Go for low-sugar, non-sticky treats.
Brush or Rinse After Eating -Maintains clean aligners and teeth.
Drink Water Instead – Will freshen breath and stave off hunger pains.
Meal Planning Around Wear Time – Make sure to eat your meals when you plan on taking your aligners out; you need to have them out for 20-22 hours a day.
People should wash their teeth and eat better four times a day.
Can you bite through Invisalign?
No biting through Invisalign, as too much pressure may harm or break your aligners.
Why biting through Invisalign is bad for you:
Aligners Are Not Biting AppliancesBiting into hard food can damage these soft plastic aligners.
Changes the Form- Impacts how well they can adapt your tooth structure.
Affects Treatment – Worn aligners have to be replaced, which delays progress.
Causes you to feel Uncomfortable – When you bite down, you may be putting too much stress on your teeth and gums.
Costly – Broken aligners mean more out-of-pocket.
Before You Bite, do not chew on any hard objects, including pens, pencils, or ice, either.
Invisalign Accessories and Usage
How often should I change chewies with Invisalign?
Invisalign chewies should be replaced every 1-2 weeks or when they show signs of wear.
When Should You Change Chewies?
Flattened or Distorted – Poor fitter of aligners.
Rips or Tears – May cause a less significant ability to chew.
Laxity – Alters the pressure applied to the aligners.
Hygiene – If bacteria are allowed to adhere, then odours can occur.
Discoloration – Shows wear and use.
To ensure chewies are convenient to use and effective, keep them clean and replace them as necessary.
What are Invisalign munchies?
Invisalign munchies aligner tray seating helps you seat your liners properly, This product aids in a tight set of aligners for better tooth movement.
Advantages of Invisalign munchies:
Enhances Aligner Fit – Trays seat well onto teeth.
Facilitates Tooth Movement – Assists aligners in achieving pressure on all teeth.
Relieves Pain – Relieves pressure when brand new trays are used.
Orders can ship in as little as 24 hours! Reduces Air Gaps – Confirms aligners work correctly.
Fast Track Therapy – Assists in quicker and more precise diagnosis.
Wear munchies for a few minutes each day for increased Invisalign progress.
Oral Hygiene with Invisalign
How to remove chewing gum from Invisalign?
To get rid of gum from Invisalign, pop them in the freezer for a couple of minutes, and then peel the hardened gum away. Do not scrape as this will damage the aligners.
How to get gum off Invisalign:
Freeze the Aligners – Freeze them in a zip-top bag in the freezer for 10-15 minutes.
Peel Away Softly – When it\’s all dry and set, peel away the gum with your fingertips.
Brush Softly – Lightly brush with a toothbrush and some gentle soap.
Soak Your Aligner in Cleaner – Invisalign cleaning crystals or denture cleaner.
Thorough Rinse – Rinse aligners in lukewarm water before placing them back in the mouth.
One thing commonly overlooked is that you shouldn’t use anything pointy to help get the aligners off, because it can scratch the lining.
Oral Hygiene with Invisalign
Can I brush my teeth with Invisalign buttons?
Can you brush your teeth with Invisalign buttons on? Yes, you can and you should, just make sure to use a soft-bristle toothbrush and be gentle so that you don’t damage them.
How to brush with Invisalign buttons:
Use a Soft-Bristled Brush – Saves your enamel and attachments.
Gentle Brush Around Buttons – Do not press too hard.
Daily Flossing – Clears plaque from around your attachments.
Brush with Fluoride Toothpaste – It will help strengthen enamel and prevent cavities.
Rinse with Mouthwash – It keeps gums healthy.
It can bite the button, so don’t brush too hard!
How to keep breath fresh with Invisalign?
To keep your breath fresh when using Invisalign, practice good oral hygiene, clean your aligners daily, and make sure you’re drinking enough water. Oral hygiene can lead to bad breath.
How to Keep Breath Fresh in Invisalign:
Brush and Floss Teeth After Eating – Food won’t pile up.
Daily Clean Aligners – With CDs, Invisalign crystals, or gentle soap.
Drink Lots of Water – It helps to keep your mouth moist.
Stay Away From Sugary and Sticky Foods – Decreases bacteria.
Utilize Sugar-Free Mints or Strips – Sweetens breath, does not break down aligners.
You cannot neglect oral hygiene, as it results in odor accumulation in the liners.
Other Invisalign Concerns
How do I protect my gums from Invisalign?
Unlike standard braces, where the brackets are affixed to the teeth, the aligners cover the teeth rather closely to the gums so that you don’t have so much food getting stuck in them. To protect your gums from Invisalign, follow instructions about making sure they fit correctly, keeping up your oral hygiene, and using some orthodontic wax if the aligners are causing sore spots on your gums. If your gums continue to hurt, see a dentist.
How To Protect Your Gums With Invisalign 5 Ways to Protect Your Gums with Invisalign!!
Instantly, the ill-fitting aligners can irritate the gums.
Daily Brushing and Flossing – Reduces plaque buildup and risk of gum disease.
Orthodontic Wax – Helps alleviate irritation from rough edges.
Keep Hydrated – Reduces dry mouth, a possible aggravator of gum sensitivity.
Massage Your Gums – Increased blood flow & decreased inflammation.
If they’re cutting into your gums, have your dentist smooth the edges of your aligners.
Can you vape with Invisalign?
We would discourage vaping with Invisalign as it can stain the aligners, increase the amount of bacteria on them, and create more problems with dry mouth. Make it a point to always take your aligners out before you vape, and you can keep them from staining and keep your teeth safe.
Risks of Vaping with Invisalign:
Stains and Yellowing – Nicotine and flavorings can cause aligners to become yellow.
Bacterial Growth- Stagnant particles of vapor can result in bad breath and infections.
Dry mouth – Saliva helps cleanse the mouth and reduce the risk of cavities.
Heat!Heat!-High temperatures can distort/range aligners.
Sensitive Gums: The chemicals in vape juice may lead to sensitive gums.
Make sure you always clean your aligners properly after vaping and drink plenty of water to keep yourself hydrated.
Also Read>>>The Ultimate Guide to Braces Colors: Choosing the Best Shade for Your Smile

Dr. Niraj Ghanghoriya is a passionate dental surgeon with over 12 years of experience in clinical dentistry. He completed his BDS from the prestigious Sri Aurobindo Institute of Dentistry in 2012 and specializes in painless root canals, smile makeovers, and preventive oral care. Known for his patient-first approach and clear communication, Dr. Ghanghoriya aims to make dental knowledge accessible to everyone. When he’s not in the clinic, he enjoys writing informative dental blogs to help people take better care of their oral health.