What foods should I avoid with braces?

Braces are a great investment that can boost your confidence and oral health, which is why it is essential to avoid certain foods and habits during orthodontic treatment.

Foods to Avoid

Some foods can harm the delicate brackets and wires that straighten the teeth. Food can get stuck or even break parts of the braces. Here are some foods to avoid to prevent breakage:

• Hard foods: Nuts, crackers, raw vegetables, hard crusts

• Sticky food: peanut butter, candy like caramel or taffy, gum

• Crunchy foods: popcorn, chips, ice

• Foods you bite into: Apples, corn on the cob, carrots

Safe Foods to Eat with Braces

Fortunately, you can find safe foods to eat with braces in each of the food groups.

• Dairy: milk, yogurt, soft cheese

• Grains: pasta, rice

• Meats: chicken, lunch meats, salmon

• Breads: soft tortillas, pancakes

• Vegetables: mashed potatoes, steamed broccoli

• Fruits: bananas, blueberries

Caring For Braces

When braces are taken care of properly, treatment time decreases. Quality care includes:

• Using correct cleaning techniques daily.

• Being selective with what you eat.

• Wearing elastics and other appliances as directed by your orthodontist. 

• Protecting your mouth and braces with a mouthguard when participating in sports activities.

Want more braces-friendly tips? Call Perry Dental today—we’ll help keep your smile healthy during orthodontic treatment.