What Not to Eat With Braces

Getting braces can be a difficult adjustment for anyone. The metal mouth look, pain and frequent visits to the orthodontist that come with it can certainly cause some stress. On top of that, you may have to change your diet.

According to the American Dental Association, it is important to maintain a healthy diet when you get braces. Actually, it is always important to maintain a healthy diet, but it is especially important when you get braces because eating too many sugary foods can lead to plaque buildup around your brackets, which could permanently stain or damage your teeth.

What Foods to Avoid

It is best to ask your dentist about what foods to avoid while getting treatment.

But, the American Dental Association says it is a good idea to avoid the following foods with braces:

• Popcorn
• Corn on the cob
• Chewing gum
• Whole apples
• Other sticky foods

So, what if you eat some of these foods?

There is really no guarantee as to what could happen. You might be fine. And you might not.

When I had braces, I was pretty good about avoiding these types of foods, with the exception of chewing on gum every now and then. So, I didn’t have that many problems with my braces.

On the other hand, one of my roommates in college did not listen to any of his dentist’s diet suggestions when he had braces. You can probably guess what happened. Nearly every week he had a new problem with his braces and had to go back to the dentist.

You invest a lot of time and money into your braces. Your best bet is to play it safe and avoid any foods that could cause problems.

Source: American Dental Association

Dental Secrets is providing this information for informational purposes only. Please consult a dentist or health advisor for questions. These materials are intended, but not promised or guaranteed to be current, complete or up to date. What I write is my opinion and is not meant to be any sort of health or dental advice.