If you are prescribed braces, you will have to adjust more than your cleaning habits. When you wear braces, certain areas of the teeth are covered up, making it difficult to clean certain areas of your mouth.
Additionally, certain types of foods can even damage the elastics, wires, and brackets, which can cause major complications. Because of these factors, you will likely have to adjust your diet if you wear braces.
What Foods Should I Avoid When I Wear Braces?
If you are wearing braces, you will likely need to take a break from many common foods and treats. As a general rule of thumb, soft is always preferred to hard. Also, try to cut up vegetables, fruit, or other hard objects into smaller bites.
While you won’t need to completely change your diet, it is important that you steer clear of the following:
- Sticky Candy (Gum, Caramel)
- Hard Candy (Cough Candy)
- Sugary Drinks (Pop, Juice)
- Ice Cream
- Pretzels or Hard Chips
- Firm Bread
- Nuts
While many patients face challenges cutting these foods from their diet, it is worth it in the long run, as improving your diet and eating habits will ensure optimal and efficient treatment.
What Other Options Are There?
If adjusting your diet is too much of a challenge, it may be worth looking into Invisalign. Invisalign is a clear aligner that can easily be removed before eating or cleaning. Even if you opt for Invisalign, it is still wise to avoid the aforementioned foods, as they can damage your teeth, plaque, and enamel.
Contact Dr. B Hicks Orthodontist today to discover which orthodontics are best suited for you. Our compassionate team is dedicated to providing close care and helpful advice.
The Hicks orthodontic practice has been around for over 40 years, with Bryan Hicks taking over for his father. Dr. Hicks works hard to give his patients extraordinary outcomes from their orthodontic treatment.
If you have any questions about this article or need to talk to someone in the office, give us a call at (604) 922-0111.
