Braces are effective in correcting orthodontic problems such as under bites or wide gaps. However, to receive these benefits you have to make certain sacrifices to protect your braces.
It is important that you avoid several foods that can damage components such as wires or get stuck in braces and increase your risk of tooth decay.
Some foods you should avoid while wearing braces are:
Some foods you may want to avoid while wearing braces are:
- Popcorn
- Nuts
- Hard taco shells
- Sticky and hard candy
- Gum
- Ice
- Corn chips
- Pretzels
- Hard cookies or crackers
- Sticky or hard chocolate
- Raw vegetables
- Croutons
- French/Italian bread
- Hard fruit
- Hard rolls
- Thin crust pizza
- Meat
- Burgers
- Corn on the cob
When in a situation where one or more of these foods may be your only food choice, it is suggested that you cut the item into small pieces that will fit directly into your mouth so that you won’t have to use your front teeth for tearing.
Some “braces friendly” food options are:
- Hull-less popcorn
- Yogurt
- Bananas, grapes, oranges, strawberries, and other fruits without pits
- Light crackers or cookies
- Cheese
- Mashed potatoes, pasta, noodles
- Peanut butter and jelly
Good nutrition while wearing braces is extremely important to having a healthy smile. Eating right will help your teeth remain strong enough to support your braces and avoid any impediments that could cause your braces to be removed before the designated time.
If you would like to have your teeth evaluated for braces or would like a dental check up, please contact the Department of Dental Services at Flushing Hospital Medical Center at 718-670-5521 to schedule and appointment.
All content of this newsletter is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a medical professional before adopting any of the suggestions on this page. You must never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment based upon any content of this newsletter. PROMPTLY CONSULT YOUR PHYSICIAN OR CALL 911 IF YOU BELIEVE YOU HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY.