Article written by Diamond Braces Clinical Staff
Article medically reviewed by Dr. Oleg Drut
One of the best ways to prevent delays in your braces treatment is to watch what you eat. Certain foods can compromise your braces. To avoid damaging your appliance, it is important to remember what not to eat when you have braces.
We will elucidate the dietary restrictions pertaining to foods and beverages that should be avoided during the period of wearing braces. This way, you can keep your orthodontic treatment going without a hitch.
Foods to Avoid With Braces
You will have to abstain from eating certain foods to protect your braces and keep them from being damaged. Some may be among your favorites, which can be especially difficult. But remember — avoiding certain foods is a small sacrifice for the result of a beautiful, healthy smile.
Can you eat Hard & Crunchy Foods
When you have braces, there are certain foods that can cause problems. Hard and crunchy foods to avoid with braces include items like candy, nuts, and popcorn. These foods can cause damage to the wires and brackets of your braces.
In addition to damaging your braces, these hard foods can also pose a risk to your teeth. Should these foods become lodged in your orthodontic appliances, they have the potential to cause damage by chipping or fracturing your teeth. Therefore, these are some of the foods to avoid with them. Maintaining a braces-friendly diet is important to ensure the effectiveness of your orthodontic treatment.
Other hard foods to avoid include:
- Pizza crusts
- Ice
- Bagels and hard rolls
- Crunchy whole fruits and vegetables
- Hard crackers
- Pretzels
- Certain potato chips
- Corn on the cob
- Popcorn
You should avoid eating fruits and vegetables whole but you can eat many healthy foods after cutting them up. Apples, pears, peaches, carrots, celery, potatoes, and more can all be safely eaten. Just be sure to cut them into slices, mash them up, or blend them into a smoothie before consuming them.
Can you eat Sticky Foods
Sticky foods that can damage braces pose a significant risk to your orthodontic treatment. These foods easily become lodged in the brackets and wires, making removal challenging. The resulting difficulty in cleaning may lead to damage to your braces and, more critically, contribute to cavities and other dental issues.
Being cautious of such foods during your treatment time is important. Sticky foods can compromise the effectiveness of these things and prolong the overall treatment duration. Ensuring that you steer clear of these problematic foods will not only safeguard your braces but also contribute to a smoother orthodontic experience. Stay mindful of your dietary choices to maintain the integrity of these things and promote optimal oral health throughout your treatment.
Examples of sticky foods you should not eat with braces include:
Unfortunately, there aren’t many alternatives to eating these foods while you’re wearing braces. You will have to give them up for the time being. But remember, giving up sticky treats is a small price to pay for the beautiful smile that awaits you.
Can You Eat Sugary and Acidic Foods
During orthodontic treatment, it’s crucial to limit sugary snacks. However, this doesn’t mean you have to eliminate these foods entirely. Consuming carbohydrates can lead to a buildup of plaque and bacteria on your teeth. This buildup is a significant factor leading to tooth decay and other dental issues.
Limiting sugary and acidic foods during orthodontic treatment is a key strategy. Acidic foods can damage your teeth’s enamel and weaken your braces’ bond. Maintaining good oral hygiene, including regular brushing of your teeth, can help prevent these issues. Remember, a balanced diet and proper oral care are key to a successful orthodontic treatment.
The list of foods to limit includes:
- Ice cream
- Chocolate
- Peanut butter cups
- Citrus fruits
- Tomatoes
- Vinegar
While these foods are safe to eat, you should limit them to avoid situations where plaque can build up. This way, you can remove any remaining food particles before they can cause tooth decay and gu disease. Be sure to brush, floss, and rinse after eating these foods.
Conclusion
Maintaining a braces-friendly diet for a successful smile transformation is crucial. By avoiding certain foods and snacks, you can ensure the success of your braces. This applies to all types of braces, whether they are ceramic braces, lingual braces, traditional metal braces, or Invisalign.
Remember, regular brushing and flossing is essential. Regular visits to your orthodontist are also necessary.
These practices keep them in the best condition. Soft foods, like soft cheese, are recommended. They are gentle on your these things and contribute to their longevity.
By following these guidelines, you can maintain a healthy smile while your these things do their work. Bearing in mind that any alteration in one’s smile constitutes a journey is imperative. With the right care and diet, you’ll reach your destination with a beautiful and healthy smile.
