Braces are used to realign the teeth in order to prevent or repair cosmetic or functional problems. According to the University of Chicago Medical Center, braces should ideally be used between the ages of ten and 14, however, adults too, can derive benefit from braces. Because braces cover certain areas of the teeth and gums, many foods such as popcorn and sticky food should be avoided. These foods can become embedded between the braces and teeth, creating an environment for bacteria to thrive. Fortunately, there are foods that you can eat while wearing braces that don't cause these problems.
Fruits and Vegetables
Fruits and vegetables shouldn't be avoided just because you're wearing braces, but you should be aware that they may need to be cooked or peeled before eating. Hard fruits like apples and vegetables like carrots should be cooked well before eating if you have braces. Alternatively, you can try cutting these harder fruits and vegetables into smaller pieces and eating them with your back teeth. Check with your doctor before trying this method, however, as it may not be a good idea for some types of braces. Eating hard fruits and vegetables without cooking or cutting them can cause particles to become lodged in your braces, causing pain and inflammation.
Meat
Protein is an important nutrient but some meats are too tough or stringy if you're wearing braces. Instead, choose well-cooked meats like poultry, eggs, or ground meat. Additionally, you can get protein from beans and legumes but be cautious with nuts and seeds that can get caught in your braces. Meat that is served on the bone should be cut off the bone into smaller pieces. Always cut meat opposite the "grain" of the meat, cutting perpendicular to the way the lines of the meat appear. This makes any existing strings in the meat much smaller and less likely to become stuck in your braces.
Desserts
According to Pickron Orthodontic Care, foods that contain large amounts of sugar should be avoided when you're wearing braces. Sugar can become trapped between the teeth and braces, providing food for bacteria that can lead to infection and tooth decay. Soft desserts like sugar-free pudding or sugar-free flavored gelatin can provide sweetness without added sugar that can cause problems. Additionally, sugar-free flavored ice pops, ices and ice cream can be eaten while wearing braces. Do not eat desserts with hard or sticky additions like broken hard candy or nuts.
Beverages
When you're wearing braces, avoid drinking highly sweetened beverages like soft drinks and fruit juice. Alternatively, drink plenty of water, and for variety, have sugar-free soft drinks, coffee or tea. If you're adding cream to your coffee or tea, use just a small amount and if you like flavored creamers, choose the sugar-free version. Milk and milk products, according to Dr. Ronald P. Kolodziej of Cleveland Smile Stylers, contain naturally occurring sugars that can also lead to tooth decay. If you use milk products, use them sparingly and brush and rinse your teeth afterward.
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