Foods to Avoid with Braces

If you have recently started orthodontic treatment, then you must be familiar with the do’s and don’ts of taking care of your braces. One of the common things you need to know is the kind of foods to avoid that could damage the wires and brackets of your braces. At Nor Cal Orthodontics, we want our patients to have a healthy and beautiful smile during orthodontic treatment. In this blog post, we will discuss the foods to avoid with braces for a healthier smile.

Sticky and Chewy Foods

When you have braces, it’s always advisable to avoid sticky and chewy foods like candies, caramel, gummies, and chewy bread. These foods tend to stick to your braces, which can lead to plaque buildup and cavity formation. Additionally, chewing harder foods than what you should eat can dislodge your wires, which can prolong your orthodontic treatment.

Hard Foods

Apart from sticky and chewy foods, you also need to avoid hard foods like nuts, popcorn, chips, and ice. These foods can put excessive pressure on your braces, leading to damage, and discomfort, and prolong your orthodontic treatment. Eating hard foods with your braces can also harm your tooth enamel and increase your risk of cavities formation.

Sugary Beverages and Foods

Sugary beverages such as soda, energy drinks, and sweetened fruit juices are not just bad for your overall health but also for your teeth. These drinks contain a high amount of sugar, which can lead to plaque buildup, cavities, and gum disease. It is essential to avoid these drinks, especially when you have braces. You should also avoid sugary foods like cakes, doughnuts, and candies.

Crunchy Foods

Crunchy foods, such as apples, raw carrots, and celery, should be avoided during your orthodontic treatment. Although these foods are healthy and nutritious, they can damage your braces and prolong your treatment if eaten raw. Instead, thinly slice or chop these foods into smaller pieces and cook or bake them before eating.

Foods that require biting with the front teeth

If you have braces, it would be best to avoid foods that require biting with your front teeth. Foods like corn on the cob, raw veggies, and whole fruits can damage your braces and put pressure on your teeth. Cutting these foods into smaller pieces before eating or cooking them is a better option.

Contact Us Today!

At Nor Cal Orthodontics, we want our patients who undergo orthodontic treatment to have healthy and beautiful smiles. Avoiding these foods will prevent any damage to your braces while helping to keep your teeth clean and healthy throughout the treatment. If you have any concerns about food and orthodontic treatment, please consult your orthodontist. Remember to maintain excellent oral hygiene during the orthodontic treatment by brushing twice a day and flossing regularly. With proper care, you can have beautiful, straight teeth and a healthy smile.