Foods to Avoid With Braces (And What You Can Still Eat)
What Foods Should You Avoid With Braces?
Starting braces is exciting—but adjusting your eating habits is an important part of protecting your treatment.
Certain foods can damage brackets and wires, leading to unnecessary repairs and longer treatment times. For patients in Midlothian and Richmond, VA, knowing what to avoid can help keep treatment on track.
Foods to Avoid With Braces
Sticky Foods
Sticky foods can pull on brackets and wires, making them more likely to break.
Avoid:
- Caramel
- Gum
- Taffy
- Gummy candy
Hard Foods
Hard foods can crack brackets or bend wires.
Avoid:
- Ice
- Hard candy
- Nuts
- Popcorn kernels
Crunchy Foods
Crunchy foods may put pressure on brackets if bitten directly.
Be careful with:
- Chips
- Pretzels
- Crusty bread
- Raw carrots and apples
Tip: Cut harder foods into smaller pieces when possible.
What Can You Eat With Braces?
The good news is there are still plenty of foods you can enjoy comfortably during treatment.
Braces-friendly foods include:
- Pasta
- Rice
- Soft fruits
- Yogurt
- Eggs
- Soft sandwiches
- Smoothies
Why Following Food Guidelines Matters
Protecting your braces helps:
- Prevent broken brackets
- Avoid emergency appointments
- Keep treatment on schedule
- Improve overall results
Even small habits can make a big difference throughout your orthodontic journey.
Questions About Braces?
At Dabney Orthodontics, we help patients throughout Midlothian and surrounding areas feel confident during every stage of treatment.
👉 Schedule your consultation today to learn more about braces and clear aligner options.