Best Bites for Braces-Wearers: What Not To Eat

If you’ve worn them, you may know there are certain foods to avoid with braces, but those considering or new to them may not know what you can’t eat with braces.

Here’s a handy guide to what you can’t eat with braces:

Sticky and Chewy
Though it’s hard to resist tossing your favorite caramels into your mouth, it’s important to stick to the non-sticky food rule. Soft, chewy candies can break or loosen braces, which can lengthen the orthodontic process.

Sugary and Sweet
Whether hard or soft candies, sodas or sports drinks—sugar has a negative impact on teeth. The sweet stuff stays on your smile after consumption, generating excess enamel-destroying acid. This can lead to numerous issues including cavities, tooth decay—even gum disease. If you do indulge in a sugary snack or drink, make sure to rinse your mouth with water after consumption. And once 30 minutes has passed, brush off the remaining sugar residue.

Hard and Crunchy
Ice cubes (when chewed) and hard edibles like popcorn and pretzels are on the list of foods to avoid with braces. This also applies to healthier items like apples, nuts, carrots and corn on the cob. They can bend or break critical pieces of your braces, resulting in another visit to your orthodontist.

The good news? You don’t have to completely avoid all of these items. Modifications can be made to make eating easier and safer. Enjoy corn off the cob and cut apples and carrots into smaller, easier-to-chew pieces. There’s no need for your diet to suffer while you work on your smile.

Since you’re already adjusting your diet, you may as well add more healthy foods into your routine, including plenty of fruits, vegetables, and lean meats. A balanced diet—including drinking lots of water—will ensure tip-top teeth once you’re braces-free.