Wearing braces is a big step towards a straighter, healthier smile. But it also means being careful with what you eat. Some foods can harm your braces or get stuck in them, while others are safe and enjoyable. Choosing the right foods makes your treatment easier and more comfortable.
Why Some Foods Need to Be Avoided With Braces
Braces have brackets, wires, and bands that can be damaged by hard or sticky food. Sticky bits also get stuck in between your teeth and can lead to decay. During the first few days or after adjustments, your teeth may feel sore. Soft foods are best during those times.
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Foods You Should Avoid With Braces
Avoiding the wrong foods helps you prevent damage to your braces. Stay away from:
- Hard foods: nuts, ice, popcorn, hard sweets, raw carrots, bagels, pizza crust.
- Sticky foods: toffee, gum, caramel, chewy bars, gummy sweets.
- Crunchy foods: thick crisps, taco shells, crunchy veg.
- Foods that need biting into: apples, corn on the cob, meat on the bone.
- Drinks and dishes that stain: red wine, dark soups, and spicy curries.
You should also avoid chewing on pens, pencils, fingernails, and straws. These habits can loosen your brackets and wires.
Foods You Can Safely Enjoy With Braces
There are plenty of tasty, safe foods you can enjoy while wearing braces. These include:
- Soft fruits: bananas, melons, berries, mangoes, and ripe pears.
- Cooked vegetables: carrots, broccoli, courgettes, squash.
- Soft breads and grains: wraps, pasta, rice, couscous.
- Soft meals: mashed potatoes, scrambled eggs, porridge.
- Dairy: yoghurt, cheese, custard, milk.
- Soft proteins: minced meat, fish, tofu, chicken, lentils.
- Soups and stews: make sure they are smooth and not too chunky.
You can still enjoy pizza—just skip the crust and cut it into small pieces.
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Tips for Preparing Foods With Braces
Making food braces-friendly is easy with a few simple steps:
- Slice hard fruits into small, thin pieces.
- Cook vegetables until soft.
- Choose soft-cooked meat or shred it into small bits.
- Stick to small bites and chew slowly.
- Avoid crunchy toppings like seeds or crispy onions.
Always chew with your back teeth and take your time. Eating slowly reduces the risk of damaging your braces.
Eating Habits and Hygiene
Clean braces are just as important as eating the right food. Brush after each meal using a soft toothbrush and clean around your brackets carefully. Use floss designed for braces or a water flosser daily. Rinse your mouth after sweet or fizzy drinks, and try to use a straw when drinking them.
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The Benefits of Eating Well With Braces
Eating the right foods keeps your treatment on track and helps your whole body stay healthy. Soft fruits and veg provide vitamins, dairy gives calcium, and soft proteins and grains give energy and strength. You’ll protect your braces and keep your smile shining.
Final Thoughts
Braces don’t mean boring meals. You can still enjoy a wide range of delicious and healthy foods. Just prepare them well, keep them soft, and always think about your braces before eating. Being careful now means a smoother treatment and a brighter smile in the end.
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Start Your Smile Journey With Visage Orthodontics Aberdeen
At Visage Orthodontics Aberdeen, we’re here to support you every step of the way during your braces treatment in Aberdeen. Our friendly team provides expert advice on oral care, food choices, and how to get the best results from your braces. Whether you’re just starting out or looking for ongoing support, we’re ready to help you achieve the smile you’ve always wanted.
Book your consultation with us today and enjoy personalised care in a welcoming and professional setting. Your dream smile is just a visit away.
Frequently Asked Question
1. Can I eat chocolate while wearing braces?
Yes, you can eat soft chocolate in small amounts. Avoid hard chocolate bars or any with nuts, toffee, or caramel, as they may damage your brackets or get stuck. Choose plain milk or dark chocolate and let it melt in your mouth instead of biting into it.
2. Are smoothies a good option with braces?
Absolutely. Smoothies are a great way to enjoy fruits and vegetables without chewing. They’re gentle on your braces and teeth, especially after adjustments. Just avoid adding seeds or ice chunks, and rinse your mouth or brush your teeth afterwards if you’ve used sweet ingredients like honey or juice.
3. Can I eat crisps or chips with braces?
Crisps can be risky as they often break into sharp pieces that may damage wires or get lodged around brackets. If you do eat them, choose softer varieties like baked or puffed crisps and chew very carefully. It’s best to avoid crunchy, thick-cut styles altogether during treatment.
4. How soon after getting braces can I eat normally?
Most people feel some soreness in the first few days. During that time, stick to soft, easy-to-chew foods like mashed potatoes, soups, and yoghurt. As the discomfort fades, you can return to a more normal diet—just follow the braces-safe food guidelines throughout your treatment.
5. Is chewing gum ever allowed with braces?
In general, chewing gum should be avoided as it can stick to your brackets and wires. However, some orthodontists may allow sugar-free gum in moderation if it helps with dry mouth. Always follow your orthodontist’s advice, and never chew sticky or regular gum while wearing braces.
