What Foods Should You Avoid With Braces?
Getting braces doesn’t mean you have to completely avoid the foods you enjoy. However, being mindful of what you eat can help protect your brackets and wires and keep your treatment on track.
Foods to Be Careful With
- Hard foods: Ice, hard candy, nuts, and popcorn kernels can damage brackets or wires.
- Sticky foods: Caramel, taffy, chewing gum, and chewy candy can stick to braces or pull on them.
- Sugary foods and drinks: Limit frequent consumption to help reduce the risk of tooth decay.
You Can Still Enjoy Crunchy Foods
You don’t always have to skip firm foods. Instead:
- Cut apples, carrots, and other crunchy foods into small pieces.
- Avoid biting directly into hard foods with your front teeth.
- Chew carefully with your back teeth when possible.
Braces-Friendly Choices
- Soft fruits
- Cooked vegetables
- Yogurt and eggs
- Pasta and rice
- Soft bread
- Tender meats
- Soups
With a few simple adjustments and good brushing and flossing habits, you can still enjoy a varied diet while protecting your braces and your smile.