For the first two to five days, your teeth may be sore, so stick to soft foods. Before long, you will be able to return to eating many of your favorite foods!
There are some, however, that you will need to avoid to protect your braces. Foods that are hard, sticky, or sugary are harmful to your braces and to your teeth.
If you are careful about the type of food you choose and the way you eat your food, your teeth, gums, and bones will stay healthy throughout your treatment, and your orthodontic appliances will remain in good working condition.
Foods to avoid:
- Suckers, Jolly Ranchers, and other hard candy
- Caramels, Skittles, Starbursts, jelly beans, and other sticky candy
- Raw carrots, apples, and celery that are not cut into small pieces
- Hard rolls, bagels, and pizza crusts
- Ribs or other meat on the bone
- Beef jerky, Slim Jims, and other chewy or tough meat
- Corn on the cob
- Nuts and popcorn
- Pretzels, Doritos, Cheetos, and other hard chips
- Soda (regular or diet)
Also, please do not chew on ice, fingernails, pens, or pencils.
Remember that loose, bent, or broken appliances delay your treatment, and your time in braces will be longer.
