What Are The Foods I Must Avoid When Having Braces?

Braces are a fantastic solution for achieving a beautiful smile, but they come with their own set of rules. One of the most important aspects of maintaining braces is understanding the foods to avoid. Eating the wrong foods can damage your braces, delay treatment, and cause discomfort. Whether you’re wearing braces for the first time or have been using them for a while, this guide will help you navigate your diet to avoid foods that can cause harm. If you’re considering braces installation or have already undergone the procedure, knowing which foods to avoid can make a significant difference in your treatment.

Why Is It Important to Avoid Certain Foods with Braces?

Before we dive into the list of foods to avoid with braces, it’s crucial to understand why certain foods can cause issues. Braces consist of metal wires and brackets that apply pressure to your teeth to move them into the desired position. Some foods can:

• Damage the braces: Hard or sticky foods can break wires, pop brackets off, or cause other mechanical issues.
• Cause discomfort: Tough foods can put extra pressure on your teeth, leading to pain and discomfort.
• Lead to plaque buildup: Sugary and sticky foods can stick to your braces and increase the risk of cavities.

With this in mind, it’s vital to make informed choices about what to eat during your treatment period. Below are the most common foods to avoid.

1. Hard Foods to Avoid

Hard foods are a big no-no for anyone with braces. Biting down on hard foods like nuts, hard candy, and ice can easily break or loosen the components of your braces.

Examples of Hard Foods to Avoid:

• Nuts (almonds, walnuts, cashews)
• Hard candy (lollipops, jawbreakers)
• Ice cubes
• Caramel or any hard toffee
• Popcorn kernels

Why Avoid These Foods?

The hardness of these foods can cause brackets to pop off, wires to snap, and overall discomfort for your teeth. It is best to avoid these types of food or modify them (e.g., chop nuts or candy into small pieces if you absolutely want to indulge).

2. Sticky and Chewy Foods

Sticky and chewy foods pose another threat to your braces. These foods can easily get caught between the wires and brackets, making it difficult to clean your teeth thoroughly. Over time, this can lead to plaque buildup, which may cause cavities or gum disease.

Examples of Sticky and Chewy Foods to Avoid:

• Chewing gum (especially sugar-filled)
• Caramel and taffy
• Chewy candies like fruit snacks and gummy bears
• Sticky chocolate or nougat-filled bars

Why Avoid These Foods?

Sticky foods can cling to your braces, making them hard to remove and possibly causing dental hygiene issues. Regular brushing and flossing may not be enough to dislodge the food, and leftover pieces can cause discomfort as well.

3. Foods That Can Get Stuck Between Your Braces

Some foods are notorious for getting stuck in between your teeth and braces. If left unchecked, these foods can lead to plaque buildup, bad breath, and cavities.

Examples of Foods That Can Get Stuck Between Braces:

• Corn on the cob
• Whole apples (bite into them directly)
• Raw carrots (unless cut into smaller pieces)
• Celery and other fibrous vegetables

Why Avoid These Foods?

Fibrous or large pieces of food can easily get caught between the wires, making it hard to remove them. These food particles can also be a breeding ground for bacteria, leading to tooth decay and gum irritation.

4. Sugary Foods and Drinks

When it comes to braces, sugary foods and drinks are among the most damaging. Not only do they cause plaque buildup, but they can also contribute to cavities. It’s essential to limit your intake of sugary snacks and beverages to maintain a healthy smile while undergoing orthodontic treatment.

Examples of Sugary Foods and Drinks to Avoid:

• Soda and sweetened juices
• Candy and chocolate bars
• Sugary snacks like cake, cookies, and pastries

Why Avoid These Foods?

Sugary foods provide food for the bacteria in your mouth, leading to plaque buildup. Plaque can then cause tooth decay, especially if it’s trapped around your braces, which are harder to clean around than natural teeth.

5. Foods That Are Too Spicy

While spicy foods may not damage your braces directly, they can cause irritation in the mouth. After having braces installed, your teeth and gums may be more sensitive than usual. Spicy foods can aggravate this sensitivity and cause discomfort.

Examples of Spicy Foods to Avoid:

• Hot peppers
• Spicy sauces
• Curry dishes
• Spicy chips

Why Avoid These Foods?

The irritation caused by spicy foods can exacerbate mouth soreness, especially after adjustments or tightness in your braces. It’s best to opt for mild, soothing foods to avoid added discomfort during your treatment.

What Should You Eat with Braces?

While there are foods you should avoid, there are plenty of options that are safe for your braces. Soft, easy-to-chew foods like mashed potatoes, yogurt, pasta, and soft fruits are all excellent choices during your treatment. These foods won’t cause damage to your braces, and they’re gentle on your sensitive teeth.

Safe Foods to Eat with Braces:

• Soft fruits like bananas, strawberries, and applesauce
• Soft vegetables like cooked carrots, spinach, and peas
• Pasta, rice, and soft bread
• Dairy products such as yogurt, milk, and soft cheese
• Smoothies (without seeds or nuts)

These options will keep you satisfied while ensuring your braces stay in good condition throughout your treatment.

Key Takeaways

• Foods to avoid with braces include hard, sticky, sugary, and overly spicy items that can cause damage or discomfort.
• Proper diet maintenance can protect your braces, prevent plaque buildup, and help your orthodontic treatment progress smoothly.
• If you want to enjoy your favorite treats, cut them into smaller pieces or avoid them altogether to ensure a positive orthodontic experience.

For more information on braces installation, you can visit our orthodontic treatment 

“A beautiful smile is the best accessory anyone can wear.” 

FAQs

1. How long will I need to avoid these foods while wearing braces?

The duration you need to avoid certain foods depends on your treatment plan. Generally, it’s important to avoid these foods throughout the duration of your braces treatment. After adjustments, your teeth might be more sensitive, so it’s a good idea to avoid hard and chewy foods during that time.

2. Can I drink coffee or tea with braces?

Yes, you can drink coffee and tea with braces, but be cautious of sugary additives. Coffee and tea can stain your braces and teeth over time, so it’s best to consume them in moderation. If you drink sugary coffee or tea, be sure to brush your teeth afterward.

3. What happens if I accidentally eat something I shouldn’t?

If you accidentally eat a food that could damage your braces, don’t panic. However, it’s essential to check your braces for any damage and contact your orthodontist if necessary. If the food gets stuck, carefully floss or use orthodontic tools to remove it.

4. Can I still eat pizza with braces?

Yes, you can eat pizza with braces, but avoid hard crusts or toppings that are tough to chew. Opt for soft crust pizza and cut it into small pieces to make eating easier and safer for your braces.

5. How do I keep my braces clean while avoiding sticky foods?

To keep your braces clean, avoid sticky foods and maintain a solid oral hygiene routine. Brush your teeth at least twice a day and floss regularly. You may also want to use an interdental brush to clean between your brackets and wires.