Getting braces doesn’t mean you have to give up all of your favorite foods. However, certain foods can damage brackets and wires or become difficult to clean from around your braces.
Knowing which foods to avoid with braces can help protect your orthodontic appliances and keep your treatment on track.
At Unique Orthodontics, we recommend following the instructions provided by your orthodontic team and being mindful of foods that are hard, sticky, chewy, or crunchy.
What Foods Should You Avoid With Braces?
In general, foods that can break brackets, bend wires, or get stuck around your braces should be avoided or eaten with caution.
Hard Foods
Hard foods can damage brackets or bend orthodontic wires.
Try to avoid biting directly into:
- Hard candy
- Nuts
- Popcorn kernels
- Ice
- Hard pretzels
- Corn chips
- Hard crackers
- Crunchy taco shells
Sticky and Chewy Foods
Sticky foods can get caught around brackets and wires, making them difficult to clean.
Foods to limit or avoid include:
- Caramel
- Taffy
- Chewing gum
- Sticky candy
- Certain candy bars with caramel or chewy fillings
If food becomes stuck in your braces, take extra care to clean your teeth thoroughly.
Foods You Shouldn’t Bite Into Directly
Some foods can still be enjoyed when they are prepared differently.
Instead of biting directly into these foods, cut them into smaller pieces:
- Apples and other firm fruits
- Raw carrots
- Corn on the cob
- Bagels and crusty bread
- Pizza with a thick or hard crust
- Tough meats
Cutting food into smaller, bite-sized pieces can help reduce pressure on your brackets and wires.
Can You Eat Popcorn With Braces?
Popcorn is generally one of the most common foods orthodontic patients are advised to avoid.
The hard kernels can become trapped between your teeth and braces or potentially damage your orthodontic appliances. Popcorn can also be difficult to remove completely, which may create additional cleaning challenges.
If you’re unsure whether a specific food is safe to eat with braces, it’s always best to ask your orthodontic team.
Can You Eat Nuts With Braces?
Hard nuts can place extra pressure on your braces and may damage brackets or wires.
Depending on the type of nut and your orthodontic treatment, softer or finely chopped nuts may sometimes be easier to eat. However, follow the recommendations provided by your orthodontist.
Can You Eat Peanut Butter With Braces?
Good news: peanut butter is generally okay to eat with braces!
Smooth peanut butter is soft and does not typically place the same pressure on braces as hard or sticky candy. However, it can stick to your teeth, so brushing and cleaning around your braces afterward is important.
Avoid peanut brittle or other hard, sticky nut-based treats that could damage your braces.
Can You Eat Pizza With Braces?
Yes, you can usually still enjoy pizza while wearing braces!
Choose softer crusts and avoid biting aggressively into thick, hard, or overly crunchy crusts. Cutting pizza into smaller bites can also make it easier to eat comfortably.
Foods That Are Usually Safe With Braces
Wondering what you can eat?
There are plenty of braces-friendly foods to enjoy, including:
- Yogurt
- Eggs
- Pasta
- Rice
- Soft bread
- Soup
- Oatmeal
- Mashed potatoes
- Soft fruits
- Cooked vegetables
- Fish
- Tender meats
- Soft cheeses
During the first few days after getting braces or having them adjusted, softer foods may feel more comfortable.
Foods and Drinks That Can Affect Your Smile
Some foods and drinks may not damage your braces but can affect your oral health or contribute to staining.
Try to limit sugary foods and drinks, and brush your teeth carefully after consuming them. Dark beverages such as coffee, tea, and soda may also contribute to staining over time.
Maintaining good brushing and flossing habits throughout orthodontic treatment can help keep your teeth and gums healthy.
What Happens If You Break Your Braces?
Even with careful eating, accidents can happen.
If you break a bracket or bend a wire, contact Unique Orthodontics as soon as possible. Our team can let you know what to do and help schedule an appointment if needed.
Avoid trying to repair or cut your braces yourself.
Protect Your Braces and Keep Your Treatment on Track
Making a few adjustments to your eating habits can help protect your braces and reduce the risk of broken brackets or wires.
Remember: avoid hard and sticky foods, cut firm foods into smaller pieces, and follow the instructions provided by your orthodontic team.
At Unique Orthodontics, we’re here to help you throughout every step of your orthodontic journey. If you have questions about foods to avoid with braces or need help with your orthodontic treatment, our team is happy to help.
With 8 convenient locations throughout the Central Valley, quality orthodontic care is always within reach.
Have questions about caring for your braces? Contact Unique Orthodontics or schedule your complimentary consultation today!