Best and Worst Summertime Foods for Braces

It’s tough enough adjusting to braces. Having to change your diet does not make it easier. But unfortunately, certain foods can damage or break the wires and brackets-not to mention hurt your teeth. Here’s the ultimate food cheat sheet for the summer season:

• Chewy or gooey candies (like caramels, taffy, or gummy bears)Hard candies (like Jolly Ranchers)
• Popcorn
• Hard, crunchy foods (like nuts)
• Gum
• Ice (This applies even if you don’t have braces.)

Foods to use caution when eating include:

• Crunchy foods (like chips, pretzels, taco shells, crackers or cookies) – try to eat them one at a time
• Corn on the cob (cut off the kernels instead of eating off the cob)
• Crunchy, raw fruits and vegetables (like apples or carrots) – cut them into bite-sized pieces instead of taking big bites
• Chewy breads (like bagels, croutons or baguettes)
• Tough meats (like steak)

We recommend sticking to foods such as:

• Soft fruits (bananas, kiwi, oranges, nectarines)
• Veggies that have been steamed or cooked until soft
• Dairy products (cheese and yogurt)
• Soft meats (chicken, turkey, seafood)
• Cooked grains (rice, pasta or noodles)
• Eggs
• Soups
• Soft treats like sugar free Jello, pudding, smoothies and ice cream

We know life with braces can be rough, but before you know it you’ll have a beautiful, straighter smile to show off!