Braces and Food

Hard and sticky foods are the ones most dangerous for orthodontic patients as they can bend wires, loosen cement, or break the brackets and tubes on your
braces. Because such setbacks require additional appointments to replace broken parts, they usually delay the length of treatment. Although a careful orthodontic patient can probably eat almost any food without damaging his/her braces, the best course of action is to avoid these foods.

Foods high in sugar content also pose a problem as sugar lingering around the braces may cause cavities. Again, refraining from these foods is best, but if you do indulge, plan on brushing your teeth immediately. If this is not possible, rinse your mouth with clear water after eating particularly sweet foods.

Do NOT Eat:

• Popcorn
• Nuts
• Peanut Brittle
• Ice (even if you’re careful)
• Lemons (pure lemon juice can hurt your tooth enamel)
• Corn-on-the-cob
• Corn chips, crisp tacos
• Taffy and caramels
• Fruit Chews, Gummy Bears, etc.
• Pizza Crust (the hard outer edge)
• Bubble Gum (Ask your doctor if nonstick, sugarless gum is sometimes allowed)

You MAY Be Able to Eat:

• Carrot Sticks (if cut into thin carrot curls)
• Apples (NOT whole, only when cut into thin wedges)
• Hard French Bread (if taken in small pieces, carefully)
• Diet Drinks