The downfalls of having orthodontic treatment include wearing the dreaded wires and brackets, and all those food restrictions. Throughout your treatment course, you should avoid hard foods and sugary foods and beverages. Not only can these items damage braces, but they are also bad for your oral health. The mouth bacteria that cause decalcification, decay, cavities, and gingivitis feed on fermentable sugars and carbs. The longer leftover food debris and plaque are allowed to linger in the mouth, the more bacteria and the higher likelihood of problems.
Many patients in Pearland choose Orthodontics not only to improve their smile but also to protect long-term oral health. To make the most of your treatment, it is important to know which foods can cause damage and how to avoid them.
Sticky Foods to Avoid
Gooey items, candy, or other sticky foods can damage or loosen brackets or get trapped beneath wires. It is best to avoid:
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Chewy candy such as taffy, gum, caramel, gummy candy, and licorice
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Chewy bread items such as bagels, soft breadsticks, and pizza crust
Hard Foods That Can Damage Braces
Wires can bend, and brackets become dislodged when eating hard foods while wearing braces. While undergoing orthodontic treatment, stay away from:
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Apples, raw carrots, and other hard fruits and vegetables
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Crunchy chips or hard snacks
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Hard candies, cough drops, and lozenges
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Hard slices of bread, such as crunchy breadsticks, pretzels (hard or soft), and French baguettes
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Ice
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Nuts
Tips for Protecting Your Braces
Call your orthodontist immediately if you experience a loose or broken bracket or wire, so you can schedule a repair. Too many damaged orthodontic appliances and repairs can prolong your treatment time. If you are not sure about what foods or beverages you should be avoiding, play it safe and contact your dental office.
Also refrain from bad oral habits like chewing on objects such as ice or pencils, or nail-biting. It is a good idea to end these practices anyway, but it is especially important when undergoing orthodontic treatment.