Although braces are a type of dental appliance that is relatively sturdy, you should still treat them with care. This means that you should avoid eating certain foods that could potentially cause damage to the wires and brackets that hold your braces in place. Some of the foods you shouldn’t eat while you have braces include:
- Popcorn and nuts
- Hard taco shells
- Hard candy and gum
- Corn chips and pretzels
- Foods that are sticky, like caramel
Harder foods, like raw vegetables, meat, and fruit, should be cut up into smaller pieces before consumption. You should also avoid biting into them with your front teeth. Although it may not always be possible, it is best to stick to softer foods, like bananas, yogurt, and mashed potatoes while you have braces on.
General Care for Braces
In addition to watching what you eat while you have braces, you should also make taking care of your braces a priority. If you aren’t careful, food and plaque can build up in the crevices of your braces and may end up causing stained enamel and tooth decay.
Braces Care Tips
Good braces care starts with a gentle but thorough oral hygiene routine. Brush after every meal with a soft-bristled toothbrush, paying extra attention around brackets and wires to remove trapped food and plaque. Floss daily using a floss threader or specialty orthodontic floss to clean between teeth and under the wire where a regular brush cannot reach. Consider adding an alcohol-free mouthwash to help reduce bacteria and keep your breath fresh while your smile is being straightened.
After every meal, look in the mirror to make sure that any pieces of food aren’t stuck in your braces. Then, brush and floss your teeth, paying special attention to the areas around the brackets and wires.
If you have any questions about what foods you shouldn’t eat or how to properly care for your braces, our dentist, Dr. Anna Szmitko, can provide you with more information. Get in touch with us today for a consultation and ask about our $99 Braces Payment Plan.
