Getting braces is an exciting step toward a healthier, straighter smile! However, while you’re working toward your results, you’ll need to make a few adjustments to your eating habits.
Certain foods can damage brackets and wires, which may lead to unexpected repair appointments and interruptions in your orthodontic treatment. The good news? You don’t have to give up all your favorite meals. With a few simple changes, you can enjoy a balanced diet while protecting your braces.
Let’s look at which foods to avoid, what you can eat instead, and how to make mealtimes easier during orthodontic treatment.
What Foods Should You Avoid With Braces?
Some foods can bend wires, loosen brackets, or get stuck between the different parts of your braces. To help prevent damage, avoid foods that are especially hard, sticky, or chewy.
Here are some common examples.
1. Hard Foods
Hard foods can put too much pressure on your brackets and wires, especially when you bite directly into them.
Try to avoid:
- Hard candies and lollipops
- Nuts
- Popcorn kernels
- Ice cubes
- Hard pretzels
- Raw carrots
- Whole apples
Try instead: Cut apples and other firm fruits into small, bite-sized pieces. Cook vegetables until they’re softer, and choose softer snacks when possible.
2. Sticky and Chewy Foods
Sticky foods can cling to brackets and wires, making them difficult to clean. Some chewy foods can also pull on brackets and loosen them.
Try to avoid:
- Caramels
- Taffy
- Gummy candies
- Chewy fruit snacks
- Sticky candy
- Chewing gum
Try instead: Enjoy softer options like yogurt, pudding, applesauce, or smoothies. These choices are easier to eat without putting unnecessary pressure on your braces.
3. Foods You Have to Bite Into
Biting directly into certain foods with your front teeth can damage your brackets.
Be careful with:
- Whole apples
- Corn on the cob
- Thick sandwiches
- Large pieces of meat
- Raw vegetables
Try instead: Cut foods into smaller pieces before eating. Remove corn from the cob, slice sandwiches into manageable portions, and cut meat into bite-sized pieces.
What Can You Eat With Braces?
Having braces doesn’t mean you need to sacrifice a healthy, balanced diet. Plenty of nutritious foods are still easy to enjoy throughout treatment.
Here are some braces-friendly options:
- Fruits: Bananas, berries, melon, and soft peaches
- Vegetables: Steamed broccoli, cooked carrots, mashed potatoes, and squash
- Protein: Eggs, fish, chicken, ground turkey, and tender meats
- Dairy: Yogurt, cheese, milk, and cottage cheese
- Grains: Pasta, rice, oatmeal, and soft bread
- Other favorites: Pancakes, soups, smoothies, and macaroni and cheese
You can still enjoy a variety of meals. Just pay attention to food texture and prepare firmer foods in smaller pieces.
What Should You Eat Right After Getting Braces?
When you first get braces or have them adjusted, your teeth may feel sore or sensitive for a few days. During this time, softer foods can make eating much more comfortable.
Some good options include:
- Scrambled eggs
- Mashed potatoes
- Yogurt
- Applesauce
- Smoothies
- Oatmeal
- Soup
- Soft pasta
As your mouth adjusts, you can gradually return to more of your usual meals while continuing to avoid foods that could damage your braces.
Tips for Eating Safely With Braces
A few simple habits can help protect your orthodontic appliances throughout treatment.
- Cut food into smaller pieces. Slice apples, sandwiches, and other firm foods instead of biting into them.
- Chew with your back teeth. Avoid using your front teeth to bite into hard or crunchy foods.
- Take your time. Smaller bites and slower chewing can help you avoid putting too much pressure on your brackets.
- Avoid chewing on non-food items. Never chew ice, pens, pencils, or fingernails.
- Brush and floss regularly. Food can collect around brackets and wires, so maintain a consistent oral hygiene routine.
If a bracket becomes loose or a wire breaks, contact your orthodontist for instructions rather than trying to repair the appliance yourself.
Protect Your Braces With Help From Unique Orthodontics
Braces require a little extra care, but making smart food choices can help you avoid unnecessary appliance damage and keep your treatment moving forward.
At Unique Orthodontics, our team helps patients understand how to care for their braces, maintain good oral hygiene, and feel confident throughout treatment. We offer personalized orthodontic care at eight convenient Central Valley locations in Fresno, Clovis, Madera, Merced, Visalia, Hanford, and Tulare.
Schedule a Complimentary Consultation
Thinking about braces or have questions about your current treatment? Contact Unique Orthodontics to schedule a complimentary consultation. Our team is happy to help you explore your options and take the next step toward a smile you’ll love!
Frequently Asked Questions
What foods should you avoid when you have braces?
Avoid hard, sticky, and chewy foods that can damage brackets or wires. Common examples include popcorn, nuts, ice, hard candy, caramel, taffy, and chewing gum.
Can I eat apples with braces?
Yes! You should cut apples into small, bite-sized pieces instead of biting directly into a whole apple. This helps reduce pressure on your front brackets.
Can I eat popcorn with braces?
It’s best to avoid popcorn while wearing braces. Hard kernels can damage brackets, and popcorn hulls can become trapped between your teeth and gums.
What can I eat when my braces hurt?
Choose soft foods such as yogurt, scrambled eggs, mashed potatoes, oatmeal, smoothies, and soup. Your teeth may feel sore for a few days after getting braces or having them adjusted.
Can I eat pizza with braces?
Yes! Pizza is generally fine as long as the crust isn’t too hard or crunchy. Take smaller bites and avoid biting directly into particularly firm crust.
What happens if I break a bracket while eating?
Stop eating and check whether the bracket is loose or completely detached. Contact your orthodontist for instructions, and use orthodontic wax if the bracket or wire irritates your mouth. Your orthodontist can determine whether you need a repair appointment.