Foods to Avoid with Braces: The Ultimate List

Getting braces is an exciting milestone, but we know it comes with a learning curve—especially when lunch rolls around. As your local dentist here in Sandy, Oregon, the team at BeaverBrooke Dental wants to ensure your treatment goes as smoothly as possible. To avoid emergency visits and keep your treatment time on track, here is the ultimate guide to foods you should skip. Schedule your dental exam today.

The Sticky and Chewy Offenders

It might be tempting to reach for a caramel chew or a piece of taffy, but these are some of the biggest enemies of orthodontic hardware. Sticky foods like gum, caramel, gummy bears, and licorice can easily get tangled in your wires and pull brackets right off your teeth. This not only causes discomfort but can also delay your progress. If you crave something sweet, opt for soft chocolate or frozen yogurt instead.

Hard and Crunchy Snacks

Crunchy foods require a bite force that can snap wires and dislodge brackets instantly. You should steer clear of popcorn (the hulls are notorious for getting trapped in gums), nuts, hard taco shells, and ice. Even healthy foods like raw carrots and whole apples can be dangerous if bitten into directly; we recommend cutting them into small, bite-sized pieces to keep your dental care routine stress-free.

Sugary and Acidic Treats

While sugar doesn’t break brackets, it causes plaque buildup that is much harder to clean around braces. Frequent consumption of soda, sports drinks, and sugary candy can lead to permanent white spots (decalcification) on your teeth once the braces come off. Prioritizing low-sugar options helps protect the investment you are making in your smile.

GET STARTED TODAY

Navigating life with braces doesn’t have to be difficult. By avoiding these specific foods, you protect your appliance and ensure your smile turns out perfectly. As a dedicated Sandy family dentist, we are here to support you every step of the way with comprehensive dental services. Call BeaverBrooke Dental today to schedule your next appointment!