Delta Dental of Idaho Blog

Unleash the power of your smile

  • Idaho
  • Oral Health
  • Dental Benefits
  • Recipes and Nutrition
  • Tooth Truths

Best Bites for Braces-Wearers: What Not To Eat

November 14, 2017 Delta Dental of Idaho

foods to avoid with braces

Anyone who has worn them knows that there are certain foods to avoid with braces, but those new to them may not know what you can’t eat with braces.

Here’s a handy guide to what you can’t eat with wires:

Sticky and Chewy

Though it’s hard to resist tossing your favorite caramels or Starbursts into your mouth, it’s important to stick to this non-sticky rule. Soft candies can break or loosen braces, which can have a negative impact on the orthodontic process.

Sugary and Sweet

Whether hard or soft, sodas or sports drinks—sugar has a negative impact on teeth. The sweet stuff stays on your smile after consumption, generating excess enamel-destroying acid. This can lead to numerous issues including cavities, tooth decay—even gum disease. If you must indulge in a sugary snack or drink, make sure to rinse your mouth with water after consumption. And once 30 minutes has passed, brush off the remaining residue.

Hard and Crunchy

Ice cubes (when chewed) and hard edibles like popcorn and pretzels are on the list of foods to avoid with braces. This also applies to healthier items like apples, nuts, carrots and corn on the cob. They can bend or break critical pieces of your braces, resulting in another visit to your orthodontist.

The good news? You don’t have to completely avoid all of these items. Modifications can be made to make eating easier and safer. Enjoy corn off the cob and cut apples and carrots into smaller, easier-to-chew pieces. There’s no need for your diet to suffer while you work on your smile.

Since you’re already adjusting your diet, you may as well add more healthy foods into your routine, including plenty of fruits, vegetables, and lean meats. A balanced diet—including drinking lots of water—will ensure tip-top teeth once you’re braces-free.

More information on braces:

  • Braces Style Guide
  • 3 Tips to Get Braces Off Faster
  • Adult Braces Q&A
  • Dealing with Pain After an Adjustment

Oral Health

Subscribe to our weekly blog

Connect with Us

  • Facebook
  • Instagram
  • LinkedIn
  • Pinterest
  • Twitter
  • YouTube

deltadentalid.com
Shop for Dental Plans
(208) 489-3580
Email Delta Dental of Idaho

Posts from @deltadentalid

 

View this profile on Instagram

 

Delta Dental of Idaho (@deltadentalid) • Instagram photos and videos

About

Welcome to the Delta Dental of Idaho blog! Delta Dental of Idaho is the leading dental benefits carrier in the state, providing quality, affordable dental plans for both companies … read more

Categories

Search

Copyright Delta Dental of Idaho
Notice of Privacy Practices
Nondiscrimination Notice
COVID-19 Relief