What can you eat with braces?

Getting braces is an exciting step toward achieving a healthier, straighter smile. To protect your investment and ensure the best results, it’s important to eat the right foods and avoid anything that could damage your braces.

In the Beginning

When you first get braces, your mouth will most likely be sensitive. If your teeth are sore, for the first few days you should stick to eating soft foods like:

• Soups

• Yogurt

• Bananas

• Mashed potatoes

• Ice cream

These foods are easy to eat and are less likely to bother your sore teeth.

Foods to Avoid

Some foods should be avoided altogether while you have braces on. These foods can cause damage to your braces, bending or breaking wires, and loosening or popping off brackets.

Stay away from:

• Sticky foods – Taffy, caramel, and chewing gum

• Crunchy foods – Chips, pretzels, and hard taco shells

• Hard foods – Hard candies, nuts, and raw vegetables like carrots

• Corn on the cob – It can pull brackets off

• Whole apples – Cut them into slices instead

• Popcorn & Ice – Popcorn kernels and ice can break brackets and wires

Additional Tips

To best care for your braces, try following these simple tips:

• Cut your food into small pieces. 

• Avoid foods that are too hot or too cold.

• Chew your food gently.

• Rinse your mouth after you eat to dislodge food particles.

• See your orthodontist regularly.

Midland Dental can provide you with the information and treatment you need to ensure your experience with braces is a positive one. Contact our office today to set up a consultation!