Eating with Braces

Chorak Orthodontics

If you’ve been thinking about undergoing orthodontic treatment to improve your smile or if you have already made the decision to get braces…it’s important to know there are certain dietary habits that are known to cause orthodontic appliances to break, as well as increase the risk of dental disease. However, there are tons of braces-friendly foods that you can still enjoy throughout your orthodontic treatment. 

If you have braces, you must use caution when selecting foods to eat. Remember, Dr. Chorak aims to achieve your treatment goals with as few disturbances as possible. Damage to your braces or orthodontic appliance due to poor diet choices may extend your overall treatment time. It’s up to you to ensure that you are eating healthy foods to keep your orthodontic appliances in the best condition possible.  

Like any other adjustment in life, the first few days are the toughest. Getting braces means your mouth will be sensitive in the days following your initial appointment, which is why soft foods are best for you in the beginning. 

Orthodontic appliances, like braces, are attached to your teeth with an adhesive that will typically withstand the forces of eating. However, appliances can be dislodged, and wires can be bent or broken while eating certain foods.  

It’s best not to eat hard foods, sticky foods, and foods high in sugar. Hard foods can break, or damage wires and brackets and sticky foods can get caught between brackets and wires. You should also refrain from nail-biting and chewing on foreign objects such as pens. 

Below is a list of foods that may be appealing but are dangerous to eat during orthodontic treatment:

• Ice 
• Sticky food or candy of any kind 
• Hard food or candy of any kind 
• Foods high in sugar content  
• Foods that require biting into

Be sure to limit your consumption of sugary drinks such as soda, juice, and sports drinks. When sugar mixes with saliva, it creates a sticky film (also known as plaque) that coats the teeth. Brushing your teeth can remove plaque, but that becomes harder to do with braces, putting you at higher risk for tooth decay and cavities. 

While you will have to avoid certain foods if you have orthodontic appliances, there are still plenty of healthy and delicious food options available to you. 

Some of the best foods to eat if you have orthodontic appliances are:

• Yogurt 
• Bananas, grapes, oranges, strawberries, and other fruits without pits  
• Light crackers or cookies 
• Cheese  
• Mashed potatoes 
• Peanut butter and jelly sandwiches 
• Ravioli, spaghetti, macaroni and cheese, and other noodle dishes

Teeth move best in a healthy environment and in individuals with excellent overall health, so be sure you have a well-balanced diet. If you are unsure about dietary restrictions or healthy food options, don’t hesitate to reach out to the team at Chorak Orthodontics. We will be happy to answer any questions that you may have.