Important Foods to Avoid with Braces

When you have braces, it is very important to make sure you take care of them so that they’ll work properly. This means avoiding certain foods that could damage your braces or get stuck in them. Not only can these foods damage your braces, but they can also damage your teeth as well. Runnels Orthodontics provides expert orthodontic services in Destin and Inlet Beach, Florida. Here are some of the most important foods to avoid with braces, and some easy substitutes you can enjoy instead.
Popcorn
Popcorn is an important food to avoid when you have braces because there are so many pieces that could get stuck in them. Popcorn kernels are very difficult to remove from wires and could cause damage to the braces. Instead, opt for a softer salty snack, like a cracker.
Sugary Candy
Candies like M&Ms, Skittles, Starbursts, Butterfingers, and other ‘Halloween candy’ items are something you should always stay away from if you have braces. Not only are many of these candies very chewy and could put pressure on the braces, but the sugar is also very bad for your teeth. To get your sugar fix, opt for fruits like strawberries and bananas that have a sweet taste but a soft texture.
Hard Vegetables and Fruits
Although veggies are very healthy, there are some that you will need to stay away from while you have braces. This is because their hard texture could cause you to pop a bracket. Examples of vegetables and fruits you should avoid while you have braces include corn on the cob, carrots, and apples. If you want to eat fruits and vegetables, look for softer options, or cut them into smaller pieces that you don’t need to bite into.
Nuts
Because of their hard texture, nuts are one of the foods to avoid with braces. They can damage your brackets or wires, and they can also get stuck in between your teeth. Instead, opt for granola, which is much softer and easier to eat. You can also eat nut butters, like peanut butter or almond butter, to get a similar flavor.
When you first get your braces on, be sure to have a conversation with our orthodontist about which foods to avoid with braces. They will clarify what’s important to avoid given your specific orthodontia. Some orthodontic treatments are more limiting in terms of diet than others. Visit the experts at Runnels Orthodontics in Destin and Inlet Beach, FL to learn more. We also serve residents in Fort Walton, Niceville, Freeport, Miramar Beach, Santa Rosa Beach, Seaside, Rosemary Beach, Panama City Beach, and Panama City. Contact us today to schedule your appointment!