How long after getting braces can I eat normally?
The discomfort from braces should last only two to three days after placement; after that, most foods can be eaten but very crunchy, very hard, or very sticky foods should be avoided.
Brace Central Orthodontics
Braces FAQ Brooklyn
Get answers to common braces questions from Dr. Polina Ingberman. Learn about foods, daily wear, whitening, and more.
Eating With Braces
Can you chew gum with braces?
No, you should not chew gum with braces as it can cause the braces to break.
Can you eat chips with braces?
It depends. You can eat soft chips like potato chips, but not hard chips like tortilla chips because they can damage the braces.
Can you eat pizza with braces?
Yes, you can eat pizza with braces, but if the crust is very crunchy, it should be avoided.
Can you eat burgers with braces?
Yes, burgers should not be a problem as long as they do not contain large pieces of hard ingredients like nuts.
Can you eat chocolate with braces?
Yes, if it is not straight from the refrigerator. Soft, normal chocolate can be eaten.
What foods should be avoided with braces?
Any hard, sticky, or crunchy food such as gum, sticky candy, very hard fruits or vegetables like raw carrots, or hard bars like granola bars should be avoided as they can damage the braces.
Caring for Your Teeth
How do you whiten teeth with braces?
Teeth should not be whitened while braces are attached, as the area of the tooth covered by a bracket will not be whitened. Whitening can be considered once the braces are removed.
Do I Need Braces?
How do you know if you need braces?
There are a few indications. Some people have crowding or spacing they want addressed. Sometimes a dentist may recommend braces for a bite problem, and many younger patients should be screened by an orthodontist so issues can be caught early.
What is a good age to get braces?
A child should be screened by an orthodontist around seven or eight years old, and the orthodontist will advise on the appropriate timing for braces.
Braces vs. Invisalign
Is Invisalign faster than braces?
No, it moves teeth at about the same speed as traditional orthodontic treatment.
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Disclaimer: This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please call our office to discuss your individual needs.
Meet The Team
Our Team of Orthodontists at Brace Central
Founder · A quarter of a century of experience
Dr. Polina Ingberman, DDS
Founder of Brace Central Orthodontics and Brooklyn Orthodontics with a quarter of a century of experience. She is an NYU College of Dentistry graduate and a Columbia University trained orthodontist, treating children, teens, and adults with braces and Invisalign.
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Orthodontist
Dr. Amalya Igityan, DDS
Board-certified Brooklyn orthodontist trained at Columbia University College of Dental Medicine, with a three-year orthodontic residency at Maimonides Medical Center. Treats children, teens, and adults with braces, Invisalign®, and a full range of orthodontic appliances.
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Orthodontist
Dr. Raitzel Bernstein, DDS
Brooklyn-born orthodontist, NYU College of Dentistry graduate with a three-year residency in Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics at Maimonides Medical Center. Known for meticulous, compassionate, individualized care.
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Orthodontist · Diplomate, American Board of Orthodontics
Dr. Ezro Yadgarov, DDS
Board-certified orthodontist (Diplomate, ABO 2025), NYU College of Dentistry graduate with residency training at St. Barnabas Hospital, NY. Treats children, teens, and adults with braces, clear aligners, and orthopedic appliances. Speaks English and Russian.
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Brooklyn Orthodontist
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