lineberger orthodontics

Foods To Avoid

foods you can't eat with braces

The list of foods to avoid while wearing braces may sound like torture, but try to think of it in a different way. Braces give you a chance to explore new foods and cuisines. Now that’s a selling point! (We can try, right?) Unfortunately, there really are foods that you can’t eat with braces.

WHY DO I HAVE TO AVOID CERTAIN FOODS?

The bonding agent we use for braces is pretty strong, but the design and materials are not invincible. Eating foods that get stuck in your braces or put too much pressure on the wires, brackets, and bands may satisfy your tummy, but it may also mean additional cost to repair your braces.

WHAT TYPES OF FOODS SHOULD I AVOID?

When you wear braces, you need to avoid foods that may break the parts of your braces. Examples include hard, crunchy, sticky, gooey and sugary foods. If you chew on other types of objects, such as pens, this is a great time to kick that habit.

WHAT ARE THE FOODS TO AVOID WITH BRACES?

  • Missing hard candies? Try some scrumptious desserts instead. Cobblers, pies, and cakes without nuts are great alternatives for your sweet tooth! (We’re not saying this won’t affect your waistline, but hey, YOLO!) Just be sure to brush and floss carefully afterwards.
  • Nothing warms the heart like gooey caramel. When you have braces, caramel and other sticky foods are off limits.
  • Crunchy foods, such as chips and popcorn, are fun to eat, but not when you have braces. Replace these munchie delights with cut up carrots or apples.
  • Other foods perfect for people who are undergoing orthodontic treatment are soft fruits, eggs, softer breads, yogurt, ice cream (minus the nuts, caramel and other hard bits), cheese, pudding, smoothies, and so much more!

WHAT FOODS SHOULD I EAT MORE OF WHILE WEARING BRACES?

Brushing and flossing is more challenging with braces, so you want to find foods that are both appealing and lower in sugar. We can give you some of our favorite “ortho friendly” meal ideas during your appointments.

DO I NEED TO AVOID CERTAIN FOODS WITH INVISALIGN®?

Avoiding foods with Invisalign® is a bit different than with traditional braces, because you can remove the Invisalign® aligners as needed. Sometimes, though, this level of freedom translates into patients not wearing their clear aligners long enough each day. The goal is to enjoy your favorite foods in moderation. It’s not only good for straightening your teeth, but also for your health in general.

Knowing what foods to avoid is important when you are undergoing orthodontic treatment. Lineberger Orthodontics offers orthodontic treatment for the residents of Denver, Charlotte, Huntersville, Mooresville, and surrounding communities in North Carolina. Contact us today to schedule your appointment.