Foods to Avoid When You Have Braces
April 29, 2025
Why Food Matters More With Braces
The Biggest Offenders: What Foods to Avoid
- Hard Foods: Hard foods are particularly risky. Biting into something hard can snap a wire or pop a bracket loose, which instantly sets your treatment back. Nuts, especially tougher varieties like almonds or peanuts, should be off the menu during treatment. Hard candies may seem harmless if you suck on them, but they often tempt you into biting down. And chewing on ice, even just a little, can cause serious damage. Whole corn on the cob should also be avoided, though cutting the kernels off makes it a safer option.
- Sticky or Chewy Foods: Sticky and chewy foods are troublemakers in disguise. Caramel and taffy wrap themselves tightly around brackets and are incredibly difficult to clean. Gummy candies behave the same way, sneaking into small crevices and sticking around long after you’ve finished eating. Even chewy granola bars can stretch and tug on your braces in ways that are harmful.
- Crunchy Foods: Crunchy snacks may seem innocent, but their sharp edges and firm textures can wreak havoc. Popcorn is a major offender because of the hard kernels that can lodge between your braces and gums. Chips and pretzels also pose a risk with their hard crunch. Dense bread like crusty rolls or bagels can put unwanted pressure on your braces. And while raw fruits and veggies are usually great for your teeth, biting into whole apples or raw carrots isn’t recommended unless they’re sliced thin or cooked until soft.
- Sweet Treats: Sugary foods aren’t necessarily bad for your braces structurally, but they can seriously impact your dental health. Soda, fruit juices, and sweetened cereals can all bathe your teeth in sugar, fueling the bacteria that lead to plaque and cavities. Cookies and pastries, especially those with sticky fillings, can also linger on your braces and promote decay. If you do indulge in something sweet, rinse your mouth with water and brush your teeth as soon as you can.
Smart Swaps That Satisfy Cravings
- Yogurt or smoothies instead of ice cream cones
- Mashed potatoes or pasta instead of crunchy snacks
- Steamed veggies instead of raw
- Soft fruits like bananas or berries instead of apples
Tips to Keep Braces Safe and Clean
- Use an orthodontic toothbrush or electric brush with a small head
- Floss daily with a floss threader or water flosser
- Rinse with water after meals if brushing right away isn’t possible