Maintaining a healthy diet is good for oral and overall health. Braces can tend to be a pain as they require additional caution when choosing the right food to eat, but trust us, your perfect smile will be worth it in the end!
Popcorn
Did you know that popcorn can do damage to your teeth if you have braces or not? The kernels are hard enough to chip a tooth and break brackets or wires if bitten. Also, if your teeth and gums aren’t properly cleaned after eating this snack, the thin shell that covers the kernel can get stuck between your teeth causing further oral health problems, which include an abscess or infection. It’s safe to say, popcorn and braces don’t mix!
Soda and Other Sugary Drinks
While soda may be tasty, it contains a high amount of sugar which is harmful to braces as well as overall tooth and gum health. There are ingredients in soda that break down the enamel on your teeth, increase the chance of cavities, and weaken the bond your braces have with your teeth. It’s best to pass on the soda pop and choose water instead.
Sticky Candy
When you feel like sinking your teeth into a piece of candy, remember to keep the end goal in mind. The sugar from the candy fuels the bacteria on your teeth causing tooth decay. When you bite into a hard piece of candy, it puts stress on your teeth which then places additional force onto the bracket causing it to break off. A loose band or damaged bracket will only prolong your treatment, so choose wisely!
By this point, you’re probably thinking, “well, what can I eat?” We thought you might ask, so we put together a list of foods that are a-okay while you have braces!
Recommended foods to eat with braces:
- Soft fruit
- Cooked vegetables
- Soft cooked grains, such as pasta and rice
- Milk and yogurt
- Lean, tender meat and tofu
- Smooth nut spreads
We believe in providing you high quality and affordable treatments and the right tools to make wearing braces feel like a breeze! If you have questions about your orthodontics, or need more information on proper care for braces, visit our website today!