Getting braces is an exciting step toward a beautiful, healthy smile! But to get the best results (and avoid unnecessary trips to the orthodontist), it’s important to be mindful of what you eat and drink. Certain foods can damage your braces, slow down your progress, or make keeping your teeth clean more difficult.
At Strouse Orthodontics, we want to make your treatment as smooth as possible, so here’s what you need to know about eating and drinking with braces.
Foods to Avoid with Braces
Braces are strong, but they’re not indestructible. Hard, sticky, or chewy foods can break brackets, bend wires, or get stuck in places that are hard to clean. To keep your treatment on track, here are some foods you should avoid:
- Hard Foods
These can break brackets and wires, leading to unexpected trips to the orthodontist:
- Nuts
- Hard candies
- Ice cubes (chewing on them)
- Raw carrots (cut them into small pieces instead)
- Popcorn (kernels can get stuck and damage braces)
- Sticky & Chewy Foods
These foods can pull on your braces, get stuck, and make cleaning difficult:
- Gum (even "sugar-free" varieties)
- Gummy candies
- Chewy bagels and tough bread
- Caramel and taffy
- Crunchy Snacks
- Chips (opt for softer alternatives like baked chips)
- Pretzels
- Granola bars(unless they’re soft and not too sticky)
- Sugary Foods & Drinks
While sugar doesn’t directly harm your braces, it increases the risk of cavities, especially since braces make cleaning your teeth a little trickier. Limit:
- Soda and sports drinks
- Candy
- Sugary juices
- Energy drinks
If you do indulge in sweets, brush and rinse your mouth afterward to keep your teeth clean.
What Can I Eat with Braces?
Good news—there are still plenty of delicious foods you can enjoy while wearing braces! Here are some braces-friendly options:
✅ Soft Fruits & Vegetables – Bananas, berries, steamed veggies, avocados
✅ Dairy Products – Yogurt, cheese, soft cheeses, milk
✅ Soft Grains – Pasta, rice, soft bread, pancakes
✅ Protein Options – Eggs, fish, tender chicken, tofu
✅ Soft Snacks – Smoothies, applesauce, pudding
What About Drinking with Braces?
Drinks can affect your braces just as much as food! Here are some things to keep in mind:
Avoid sugary and acidic drinks like soda, sports drinks, and fruit juices. These can cause cavities and weaken your enamel.
Limit coffee and tea to prevent staining.
Stick to water as much as possible—it keeps your mouth hydrated and helps rinse away food particles.
Final Tips for Eating with Braces
Cut food into smaller pieces – This makes it easier to chew without putting too much pressure on your braces.
Chew with your back teeth – Avoid biting directly into hard foods.
Brush and floss after eating – Keeping your teeth clean is even more important with braces!
We’re Here to Help!
At Strouse Orthodontics, voted the Best Orthodontist in Hernando County for the last 4 years, we want your braces journey to be as smooth as possible. If you ever have questions about what you can or can’t eat, feel free to ask! And if something happens—like a loose bracket or wire—give us a call, and we’ll help you get back on track.
Ready for a straighter smile? Schedule an appointment with us today!