Whether you are about to have braces fitted yourself or you have been told your child needs them, knowing what you can and can’t eat is crucial. Not only can your food choices make the experience of having braces more comfortable, but they can also help cut down the number of trips needed to your orthodontist.
Find out exactly what foods you can eat and which ones you should avoid with braces right here. Plus, top tips on how to avoid costly repairs.
- Breaded goods
Pre-cut loaves of bread are perfectly fine for people with braces to eat as they are not too difficult to chew. Other breaded items such as soft tacos and tortillas are also safe options and can be eaten with ease.
- Dairy products
Most types of dairy can be eaten by people wearing braces, but particularly soft options such as soft cheese, yogurts, and dips. Be cautious with hard cheeses as these can easily get stuck in braces and cause discomfort and/or damage.
If your braces become damaged, make sure you visit a reputable orthodontist like Dr. Walinder S. Dhol DDS, MSc, FRCD(C) who has a wealth of experience in this form of dentistry.
- Soft fruits and cooked vegetables
Soft fruits such as bananas, kiwis, strawberries, and apricots can be eaten as part of a healthy balanced diet for people with braces. If the fruit has a stone in the middle, make sure this is removed before eating.
Vegetables are another healthy choice for adults and kids with braces and can be eaten easily when cooked until tender and soft. Avoid eating raw vegetables such as crudites, as these may damage your braces.
- Sweet treats
Just because you are wearing braces does not mean you can’t enjoy the odd sweet treat. Ice cream, jelly, smoothies, and milkshakes are all good choices, as are cakes, pancakes, and softer biscuits.
Of course, too much sugar can harm your teeth, so try to keep the above as occasional treats rather than eating them daily.
- Soft meats and seafood
Meats such as chicken, turkey, and pork can be safely consumed when wearing braces and roasted or from the deli. Barbecued meats are also okay as long as they are not too chewy.
Avoid trying to eat any crackling, as this is highly likely to cause discomfort or damage to your braces.
How to care for your braces
To avoid damage and costly repairs, you must wear your braces 24 hours a day, including when you are eating. Brush your teeth and braces after each meal, and keep your braces in a protective box when you are not wearing them.
If your braces become damaged in any way, call your dentist or orthodontist immediately.
What foods NOT to eat with braces
There are certain foods that you should avoid eating if you have braces. These include:
- Whole apples and pears
- Carrots and other raw veggies
- Hard or crusty bread
- Popcorn
- Whole nuts
- Corn on the cob
- Tough meats that require a lot of chewing
- Sticky foods such as caramel
- Ice lollies
- Beef jerky
- Chewing gum
It is also not recommended to drink anything beverages that are high in sugar, such as soda, as these can cause tooth decay and may stain your braces. Turmeric can also cause staining so it should be avoided.