Foods to Avoid with Braces

During orthodontic treatment it is important to avoid foods that can break your braces.  Broken braces take time to repair. Should you encounter a loose or broken brace please notify our office as soon as possible so we can schedule a repair visit.  Please note that repair visits are scheduled during times of the day where the doctor can dedicate the time to fix the broken brace.  They are not scheduled during the early morning, late afternoon or evenings.

For your reference a list of common foods to avoid during orthodontic treatment is provided below:

AVOID THESES FOODS

STICKY and CHEWY:  
Caramel, taffy, gummy candy, chewing gum, dried fruits and related foods.  

CRUNCHY and CRUSTY:  Chips, popcorn, hard pretzels, apples, carrots, celery, crusty rolls/bread, pizza crusts, etc.

OTHER HARD OBJECTS AND HABITS:  No chewing on ice, pens or pencils.  Remember not to chew on your mouthguard as this can break braces too!

ENJOY THESE FOODS:

SOFT: Pasta, fish, eggs, smoothies, yogurt, rice, tofu, etc.

CUT-UP: Sliced fruit and veggies such as apples, pears, thin carrot and celery slices. 

COOKED: Many crunchy veggies can be cooked to soften them for eating while in braces.

SAFE TREATS: Brace-friendly treats include milkshakes, pudding, jello, thin/soft chocolate bars, soft baked goods.  Of course, remember to brush well after eating these sugary treats.