Braces are very effective in correcting teeth misalignment at any age. However, they require some level of extra care to keep them clean and in good condition. And this includes your food choices. So, let’s answer the common question, “what are the foods I can’t eat with braces?”
There are generally four categories of foods to avoid with braces: hard foods, sticky foods, sugary foods, and foods that may cause staining.
What are the foods I can’t eat with braces?
#1 – Hard Foods
Hard foods can break the brackets or wires on your braces, which can extend your treatment time. Some of the foods in this category are:
- hard candy
- ice
- nuts
- raw carrots
- apples and pears (unless cut into small pieces)
- popcorn
- hard taco shells
- chips
- hard cookies or crackers
- hard chocolate
- corn on the cob
#2 – Sticky Foods
Sticky foods can get stuck in your braces and are difficult to remove. This can lead to tooth decay and gum disease. Some of the foods in this category are:
- caramel
- gum
- jerky
- rice
- taffy
- marshmallows
#3 – Sugary Foods
Sugary foods can cause cavities. This is because the sugar sticks to your teeth and the bacteria in your mouth feed on it. Some of the foods in this category are:
- cookies
- cake
- candy
- soda
- energy drinks
- sports drinks
- fruit juice (even if it’s natural)
#4 – Foods/Drinks that Cause Staining (especially for Ceramic Braces)
If you are wearing clear or ceramic braces, you may also want to avoid foods and drinks that can cause staining. These include:
- coffee
- tea
- red wine
- soy sauce
- curry
- beets
- tomato sauce
- berries
- dark chocolate
So, these are the foods I can’t eat with braces. Avoiding these foods will help you keep your braces clean and in good condition, which will ultimately save you time and money.
While you may have to give up some of your favorite foods for a while, it’s important to remember that this is only temporary. Once your braces are removed, you can enjoy all of your favorite foods again!
Also, there are also some foods you are encouraged to eat with braces. These include:
- leafy greens
- dairy products
- soft fruits and vegetables
- fish
- tofu
- cooked meat
- grains
- yogurt
- smoothies
So, there are still plenty of foods you can enjoy with braces. Just be sure to avoid the foods on the list above and you’ll be on your way to a beautiful, healthy smile.
Braces in Centralia, WA
Braces are a big investment, so it’s important to take good care of them. And that includes being mindful of the foods you eat. If you want to get the braces but don’t know where to begin, Centralia Orthodontics is here for you!
Our orthodontist, Dr. Andrew Lasley, is always honored to have the opportunity to help the people of Renton and neighboring areas achieve the wonderful smiles they desire. He combines his background in engineering and biomechanics to gain a unique perspective when evaluating and customizing treatment plans for orthodontic problems.
Dr. Lasley takes a careful approach that is systematic and seeks orthodontic solutions that are effective and efficient, yet gentle and comfortable. With Centralia Orthodontics, you can expect to receive the highest quality of care and individualized attention.
Contact us today to schedule an appointment! We look forward to your first visit.
