Getting braces is a significant step toward achieving a beautiful smile. However, it comes with a few dietary restrictions to achieve the best results. The wires and brackets of braces are delicate and prone to damage if not properly cared for. To ensure the success of your treatment and avoid damaging your braces, it’s crucial to follow a brace-friendly diet. From crunchy snacks to sticky sweets, knowing what to avoid can help you maintain your braces.
How Do Braces Affect Eating?
Braces can significantly impact your eating habits. You should be very careful with certain foods that are not recommended with braces. Dr. Polina Ingberman of Brace Central says, “Any hard, sticky, or crunchy foods such as gum, sticky candy, or very tough fruits or vegetables like raw carrots, or hard bars like granola bars, should be avoided as they can damage the braces.” Here’s how braces can affect your eating habits:
Discomfort and Sensitivity
Initially, braces can cause soreness and heightened sensitivity. Therefore, eating hard or chewy foods can be difficult. Eating inappropriate foods can increase discomfort and make eating an unpleasant experience during this period.
Risk of Damage
Hard foods can break brackets, and chewy or sticky foods can bend wires or get stuck in braces. These can potentially prolong treatment, damage the braces, and cause discomfort. Damaged braces require repairs, which can extend the duration of your treatment.
Hygiene Issues
Food particles easily get trapped in braces, increasing the risk of plaque buildup, cavities, and gum disease. Cleaning braces thoroughly can be challenging, and certain foods can make it more difficult. Neglecting hygiene with braces can lead to dental issues and complicate your treatment.
What Foods Can You Eat with Braces?
When you have braces, choosing the right foods can significantly improve your comfort and treatment experience. Here are the foods you can eat and avoid immediately after getting braces:
- Ice Cream
- Soft Fruits
- Cooked Vegetables
- Dairy Products
- Rice and Mashed Potatoes
- Steamed Vegetables
- Tender Meats
- Eggs
- Soft Bread
- Soft Treats
- Cooked Beans
- Soft Snacks
What Foods Can You Avoid with Braces?
It’s important to avoid certain foods that can damage or get stuck in your braces. They can lead to discomfort or even breakage. Here are some foods you can avoid:
- Popcorn
- Nuts
- Sticky and Hard Candy
- Chewing Gum
- Hard Cookies or Crackers
- Chewy Candies (like Caramel)
- Crunchy Chips
- Hard Pretzels
- Hard Crusty Bread
Tips for Eating with Braces
Eating with braces requires some adjustments to ensure comfort and prevent damage. Here are some helpful tips to make the process easier:
- Opt for softer foods that are gentle on your braces.
- Cut fruit such as apples into smaller, bite-sized pieces to make them easier to chew.
- Steer clear of sticky foods that can get stuck in your braces and be difficult to remove.
- Brush and floss regularly to remove food particles from your braces and prevent plaque buildup.
- Drink plenty of water throughout the day to help wash away food particles and keep your mouth hydrated.
- Your orthodontist may provide specific dietary recommendations for braces; be sure to follow their guidance.
Brace Central: Your Path to a Confident Smile
Brace Central can be your trusted dental clinic for expert orthodontic care if you’re planning to get braces. With years of experience creating beautiful smiles, our expert orthodontists prioritize comfort and care, ensuring a smooth process from start to finish. Whether you’re seeking traditional braces, clear aligners, or customized treatment plans, Brace Central is focused on meeting your treatment needs. Call us today at 718-998-1888 to book an appointment and get ready to improve your smile with Brace Central.
Disclaimer: The information provided is for general guidance only and should not replace professional advice from your orthodontist or dentist. Dietary recommendations may vary based on individual circumstances. Always consult with your orthodontist or dental professional before making any changes to your diet or oral hygiene routine.