Even though braces have become more sturdy over the years, it's still essential not to damage them. Certain components of your braces, such as the wires, brackets, and rubber bands, can be damaged by some foods. In this post, our Langley orthodontists share a list of foods you have to avoid during your braces treatment.
If your orthodontic condition is being treated with braces, it’s imperative that you avoid certain foods that can increase your risk for cavities or damage your braces.
Sugary and starchy foods generate plaque acid that can cause tooth decay and promote gum disease. Sticky, chewy sweets like caramel, fudges and toffee can also cause wire damage and loosen brackets.
What Will I Need To Avoid With Braces?
Typically, patients that have braces need to avoid any food that is sticky, hard, or chewy and can break braces or make their impact less effective. The following are examples of foods to avoid when wearing braces:
- Gum
- Sticky/hard chocolate
- Sticky/hard candy
- Nuts
- Popcorn
- Corn chips and pretzels
- Hard cookies or crackers
- Ice
What Foods Can I Eat With Braces?
Soft foods are recommended most for those who wear braces because they are gentler on the hardware. Here are some examples of food that you can eat while wearing braces:
- Cheese
- Light crackers or cookies
- Yogurt
- Soft fruits without pits (bananas, grapes, strawberries, etc.)
- Pasta and other noodle dishes
- Peanut butter and jelly
- Mashed potatoes
- Hull-less popcorn
People that have braces should also try to avoid biting into hard foods with the front teeth. When possible, the following hard foods can be cut up into smaller pieces:
- Hard bread or rolls
- Fruit
- Raw vegetables
- Corn on the cob
- Meat and Burgers
- Thin crust pizza
It can take years to straighten teeth with braces, and any damage to the wires or brackets can increase the length of your treatment. To keep your braces intact, be sure to select foods you can eat and take good care of your oral health.