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!