What Foods Should You Avoid With Braces?

Getting braces is an exciting step toward achieving a beautiful, healthy smile. At Advanced Orthodontics in Bellevue, WA, we understand that adjusting to life with braces includes learning about dietary changes. Whether you’re considering traditional metal braces, SureSmile braces, or exploring our Invisalign options, knowing what foods to avoid will protect your investment and keep your treatment on track.

Why Do Certain Foods Need to Be Avoided With Braces in Bellevue?

When you wear braces, your teeth are actively moving into their new positions. The brackets and wires work together to create your perfect smile, but they can be damaged by certain foods. Hard, sticky, or chewy foods can:

• Break or loosen brackets
• Bend wires
• Get stuck in your braces, causing tooth decay
• Slow down your treatment progress
• Lead to emergency orthodontic visits

At Advanced Orthodontics, we use the latest technology including 3D imaging to create precise treatment plans. Protecting your braces by avoiding certain foods helps ensure your treatment stays on schedule.

What Hard Foods Should You Skip With Traditional Braces?

Hard foods are the number one enemy of braces. They can snap wires and pop brackets right off your teeth. Here’s what to avoid:

• Nuts and seeds (almonds, peanuts, sunflower seeds)
• Hard candies (lollipops, jawbreakers, peppermints)
• Ice (never chew on ice cubes)
• Popcorn (kernels can break brackets)
• Raw carrots and apples (unless cut into small pieces)
• Hard pretzels and chips
• Pizza crust (the hard edges)
• Corn on the cob (cut corn off instead)
  
  

Quick Reference Table: Foods to Avoid vs. Safe Alternatives

Which Sticky Foods Can Damage Your Orthodontic Treatment?

Sticky foods are particularly troublesome because they cling to your brackets and wires. These foods can pull brackets loose and are difficult to clean off your braces. Stay away from:

• Gum (all types)
• Caramels and taffy
• Gummy bears and fruit snacks
• Starbursts and Now & Laters
• Tootsie Rolls
• Dried fruit (raisins, dried mango)
  
  

Are There Foods That Can Stain Clear Braces?

If you have clear or ceramic braces as part of your adolescent treatment or adult treatment plan, certain foods and drinks can cause staining:

• Coffee and tea
• Dark sodas
• Tomato sauce
• Curry
• Berries (blueberries, blackberries)
• Beets
• Food coloring

While these foods won’t damage your braces, they might make clear brackets look yellow or discolored. If you do consume these items, rinse your mouth with water afterward.

What Can You Safely Eat During Early Treatment Orthodontics?

Good news! There are plenty of delicious foods you can enjoy while wearing braces:

Soft Foods:

• Pasta and noodles
• Soft breads and muffins
• Pancakes and waffles
• Yogurt and pudding
• Mashed potatoes
• Scrambled eggs
• Soft cheeses
• Smoothies and milkshakes

Proteins:

• Fish and seafood
• Tender chicken
• Meatballs
• Soft-cooked beans
• Tofu

Fruits and Vegetables:

• Bananas
• Soft melons
• Steamed vegetables
• Cooked spinach
• Avocados
  
  

How Should You Handle Food Cravings With Braces?

Missing your favorite foods? Here are some tips:

• Find substitutes (smoothies instead of whole fruits)
• Cut hard foods into tiny, bite-sized pieces
• Cook vegetables until they’re soft
• Use a blender to make soups and smoothies
• Remember that braces are temporary, but your beautiful smile is permanent
  
  

Overview: Essential Points

Key Points to Remember:

• Hard foods break brackets and wires
• Sticky foods pull on braces and are hard to clean
• Chewy foods can bend wires
• Cut food into small pieces when possible
• Choose soft alternatives to your favorite foods
• Proper diet protects your investment in orthodontic treatment
• Following food guidelines keeps your treatment on schedule

The Big Three to Avoid:

1. Hard foods that can break your braces
2. Sticky foods that pull on brackets
3. Chewy foods that can bend wires
   
   

Ready to Start Your Journey to a Perfect Smile?

Don’t let food restrictions discourage you from getting the smile you’ve always wanted! At Advanced Orthodontics in Bellevue, WA, we make orthodontic treatment comfortable and convenient with our cutting-edge technology and flexible payment plans. Whether you’re interested in traditional braces, SureSmile technology, or Invisalign clear aligners, our team is here to guide you every step of the way. Schedule your consultation today and discover how we can transform your smile while fitting seamlessly into your lifestyle!