Foods You Should Avoid During Orthodontic Treatments

Orthodontic treatments can be a great way to achieve a beautiful, healthy smile. However, these treatments do require some lifestyle changes, including dietary modifications. Certain foods can potentially cause damage to your braces, leading to longer treatment times and additional expenses, so it’ll benefit you to learn about the types of food you should avoid.

Foods to Avoid During Orthodontic Treatments

When undergoing orthodontic treatment, it’s important to take care of your teeth and avoid certain foods that can harm your braces. Here are some foods to avoid during orthodontic treatments:

Hard Foods
Hard foods such as nuts, hard candies, and popcorn can damage your braces and cause wires or brackets to break. These foods can also get stuck in your braces, making it difficult to clean your teeth properly. Instead, opt for softer foods like cooked vegetables, soft fruits, and tender meat.

Sticky Foods
Sticky foods such as gum and caramel can also damage your braces by getting stuck in the brackets or wires. These foods can be difficult to remove and can cause plaque buildup, leading to tooth decay. Instead, choose softer alternatives like smooth nut spreads, mashed potatoes, and soft cheeses.

Sugary Foods
Sugary foods such as candy, soda, and sports drinks can cause tooth decay and cavities. When consuming sugary foods, it’s important to brush and floss your teeth thoroughly to remove any leftover sugar particles. Opt for healthier alternatives like fruits, yogurt, and lean protein.

Acidic Foods
Acidic foods such as citrus fruits, tomatoes, and pickles can erode the enamel on your teeth, leading to cavities or tooth decay. When consuming acidic foods, it’s crucial to rinse your mouth with water afterward to neutralize the acid. Opt for less acidic alternatives like bananas, cooked vegetables, and seafood.

Healthy and Suitable Alternatives

Don’t be discouraged by all the foods that you should avoid. There are still plenty of healthy alternatives available that can be enjoyed without causing harm to your braces.

Soft and Easy-to-Chew Foods
Soft and easy-to-chew foods are ideal for those with braces as they are less likely to cause damage. Some great options include:

• Cooked vegetables such as carrots, broccoli, and sweet potato
• Soft fruits such as bananas, peaches, and melons
• Cooked grains such as rice, quinoa, and couscous
• Soft proteins such as fish, tofu, and scrambled eggs

Low-Sugar Foods
High-sugar foods can cause damage to braces and increase the risk of cavities. To avoid these issues, opt for low-sugar foods such as:

• Fresh fruits such as berries, apples, and oranges
• Vegetables such as cucumber, celery, and bell peppers
• Whole grains such as oatmeal, brown rice, and whole wheat bread
• Lean proteins such as chicken, turkey, and fish

Neutral pH Foods
Foods with a neutral pH level are less likely to cause damage to braces and can help maintain good oral health. Some examples of neutral pH foods include:

• Water
• Milk
• Cheese
• Nuts and seeds
• Whole grains

By incorporating these healthy alternatives into your diet, you can still enjoy a wide variety of delicious foods while maintaining good oral health and preventing damage to your braces.

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Consult Modern Orthodontics For More Guidance About Your Orthodontic Treatments

Taking care of your teeth during orthodontic treatment is crucial for achieving the best results. It’s important to educate yourself about which foods to avoid, so you won’t accidentally damage your braces, and suffer a higher risk of tooth decay and gum disease.

While it may be tempting to indulge in hard candies, popcorn, and other chewy or crunchy snacks, it’s important to remember that these can damage your braces and require extra trips to the orthodontist for repairs. By following these guidelines and maintaining good oral hygiene, you can ensure the best possible outcome for your orthodontic treatment. Remember to schedule regular check-ups with your orthodontist and follow our instructions for the care and maintenance of your braces.

Dr. Alan Wong

Dr. Alan Wong is a dedicated orthodontist who loves helping his patients achieve healthy, beautiful smiles. He is committed to providing gentle, effective care in a patient-centered environment. Dr. Wong is also a strong believer in continuing education, so he can provide his patients with the latest and greatest treatment options.