Posted on August 29, 2023
Visiting an orthodontist for metal braces is a beautiful way to enjoy a straighter, healthier smile. However, it’s essential to understand that there are certain foods you can’t eat while wearing braces.
Sticky or chewy foods like caramel or gum should be avoided until your braces come off. Bits of these foods can get stuck between the metal wires of your braces, which can be hard to clean. If they are not cleaned properly, it can result in tooth decay.
Hard foods and candy should both be avoided. Hard foods like seeds or nuts can get stuck in your braces. For example, popcorn is a typical food with a hard seed in the middle. The same thing can happen if you eat hard candy. When you chew the hard candy, tiny pieces can get lodged between your braces and teeth or stuck to the metal components of your metal braces.
While wearing braces, avoiding tough meats like beef jerky or tough steak is essential. When chewing these meats, it takes extra effort to chew them up. This puts unnecessary strain on the parts of your braces. It can make the metal wires bend or damage the brackets. You can still eat plenty of meat but select tender options for now.
Hard fruits and vegetables require additional effort to bite into. This puts the same strain on your braces as biting into tough meat. Instead, consider other alternatives. You can opt for cooked fruits and vegetables, such as fried apples, instead of biting into an apple. Another great idea is to cut fruits and vegetables into smaller pieces, so you don’t have to bite into them.
You’ll also want to avoid eating corn on the cob. Biting into the corn on the cob can damage your braces, and corn can get stuck. Instead, cut the kernels off the cob. It may be uncomfortable to eat chewy bread, like bagels. Anyone who has trouble with this should cut the bread into small pieces. Chewing ice can damage your braces, including the brackets, and may damage your teeth.
Although getting used to metal braces can be challenging, the effort is well worth the outcome. You’ll enjoy straighter teeth, better oral hygiene, and increased self-confidence. Contact us for more information.
