Which Types of Food Should You Avoid When You Have Braces?
Be aware that braces are sensitive to damage, so you’ll need to avoid certain foods for as long as you have braces. These include chewy, sticky foods that can get caught between brackets or wires, as well as hard foods that can break or damage wires and brackets. In addition, try to avoid sugary foods and drinks which cause tooth decay. And, never chew on hard objects like fingernails, pencils, and pens which can damage braces.
Foods to Avoid with Braces
Foods to Avoid with Braces
- Chewy or Sticky Foods
- Gum (sugar-free or regular)
- Licorice
- Sugar Daddies
- Toffee
- Tootsie Rolls
- Caramels
- Starburst
Hard Foods:
- Ice
- Nuts
- Hard taco shells
- Uncooked apples and carrots (unless cut into small pieces)
- Corn on the cob
- Jolly Ranchers
- Hard Pretzels
- Chips
- French Bread/rolls with crust
- Popcorn
Limit to Once a Day or Less:
- Soda
- Sweetened Tea
- Gatorade
- Kool-Aid
- Any drinks with sugar
Sugary Foods:
- Cake
- Ice Cream
- Cookies
- Pie
- Candy
** Be sure to regularly check your braces for bent or loose wires and brackets. In the event of a loose/broken wire or bracket, call our office immediately to arrange an appointment for repair. Loose/broken braces or wires may cause treatment to take longer and could lead to poorer results.
