Although braces have become stronger thanks to modern technologies, it is still important to be careful. Certain foods can damage both the braces themselves and their components.
What can and cannot be eaten with braces?
Why certain foods should be avoided with braces
Braces have components that can be damaged by certain foods. It is important to avoid very hard or sticky foods.
After getting braces, you will need to change your eating habits. Choosing the right diet will make wearing braces more comfortable. You will also not need to visit your orthodontist frequently for repairs by preventing damage.
Excessively hard or sticky foods can break the archwire or dislodge a bracket from the tooth. If this happens, the braces will be ineffective until the orthodontist repairs them. Avoiding damage will help you remove braces sooner.
During the first day or two after getting braces, the patient may experience discomfort. While the teeth are adjusting to braces, it is recommended to eat mostly soft foods.
Consuming foods high in sugar and not maintaining proper oral hygiene may lead to stains forming on the exposed parts of the teeth.
One of the biggest risks for braces is biting into hard foods with the front teeth. Therefore, food should be cut into smaller pieces and chewed using the stronger back teeth.
Foods to avoid with braces
Crunchy and sticky foods such as nuts, chewing gum, and hard candies can loosen brackets and wires, which may delay treatment.
Foods to avoid with braces include:
- nuts;
- potato chips;
- popcorn;
- hard candies (such as lollipops);
- chewing gum;
- sticky candies (such as toffee);
- corn;
- apples;
- raw carrots;
- beef jerky;
- hard cookies and crusty baked goods.
Cut food into smaller pieces to avoid problems with braces.
Foods you can eat with braces
Although there are many foods to avoid, there is still plenty of delicious food you can enjoy:
- pasta and noodles;
- mashed potatoes;
- cooked vegetables;
- boneless meat;
- soft fruits and vegetables;
- soups;
- dairy products;
- soft bread and sandwiches;
- casseroles;
- pizza (without the crust);
- cheese;
- peanut butter.
It is also important to follow a healthy and nutritious diet for both oral health and overall health. The healthier your body is, the better the results of orthodontic treatment, as proper nutrition provides essential nutrients for bones and tissues that undergo significant changes during braces treatment.
Cleaning teeth from food debris and plaque prevents decay and staining. Lingual or inner braces on the back side of the teeth require special care, as you cannot see whether food is trapped behind the teeth.
This article does not replace a medical consultation. For complete and personalized information, please consult your dentist.