Certain foods should be avoided while wearing braces to prevent damage and maintain overall oral health.
We all know that braces are an effective and reliable choice when it comes to straightening one’s smile. Made up of several key components, including brackets, bands, wires and springs, braces work by applying constant pressure on the teeth, slowly moving them in a specific direction over time.
What you may not know about braces is that the treatment process requires certain lifestyle changes — one of the most important factors to consider is that there are some foods you should avoid to keep your orthodontic health in check. For example, it is advisable that you stay away from any food or drink if it has small particles like seeds or pits because they can get stuck between the brackets and wires, and around the teeth which could lead to damage and even serious infections. Sticky candy should also be avoided as it’s hard to chew without getting caught in the brackets. Read on to find out more about which foods are best avoided with braces, and what you can safely eat during your treatment…
What can’t you eat?
It is important to understand that although braces are made from strong and durable materials, it is possible for the components to become damaged without the correct care. For this reason, there are certain foods that should be avoided completely throughout the course of your treatment. These include foods that are particularly hard and sticky, which could damage your wires or cause a bracket to become loose or detached from a tooth.
Some examples of foods that should be avoided include nuts; popcorn; chewy and sticky candy; hard breads; pizza crusts; crunchy foods like raw vegetables and certain fruits; chips; and crackers.
It is also advisable that you limit the number of sugary foods and beverages that you consume whilst wearing braces. Sugar contributes to the formation of plaque on the teeth and gums, which can be hard to remove when you have braces.
What can you eat?
Although there are a few foods that are best avoided during your orthodontic treatment, the good news is that there are plenty of delicious and nourishing foods that you can eat while you have braces.
If you feel some sensitivity when your braces are first fitted or when you have an adjustment, you may find it helpful to eat soft foods for a few days. Some good options include mashed fruits and vegetables like potatoes, pumpkin and avocado; soups; yoghurt; smoothies; scrambled eggs; soft-cooked pasta; and oatmeal. Anything that minimises chewing and does not cause you discomfort is ideal while you adjust to the feeling of new braces.
As you get used to your braces, you will be able to incorporate more foods into your diet and gradually begin to enjoy most of your favourite foods. If you have a question about your nutrition during your treatment, be sure to speak to your orthodontist who will be able to provide you with the information that you need.
How can we help?
At SmartSmile Orthodontics, we offer a range of orthodontic treatments, including traditional braces. Traditional braces remain a popular and effective treatment, thanks to their ability to achieve such good results. If you are considering an orthodontic treatment, we encourage you to come in and see us so that we can discuss your particular needs, concerns, lifestyle and aesthetic goals with you.
When you come in for a consultation, we will let you know which treatment options are most appropriate for you. We will then guide you through your treatment of choice, and advise you on how to maintain your oral health throughout the course of your treatment. If you have any questions or concerns about life with braces, we encourage you to raise them with our team.
If you are ready to arrange a consultation with the SmartSmile Orthodontics team, please give us a call on 02 6686 6705 or get in touch with us here.
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