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Beginning orthodontic treatment is an exciting step toward a healthier, more confident smile. Whether you've just received your braces or are deep into your journey, knowing what foods to avoid plays an important role in protecting your investment.
At Great Bay Orthodontics, Dr. John Walsh and our team prioritize both comfort and results, so we’re here to guide you through the do’s and don’ts of eating with braces, making your treatment smoother and your smile brighter.
Sticky and chewy foods are some of the biggest culprits when it comes to damaging braces. These types of foods can easily get caught in brackets and wires, making them hard to clean and increasing the risk of plaque buildup, cavities, or even orthodontic emergencies.
More importantly, they can pull at the braces. This may cause the wires and brackets to bend or break, which may require an extra trip to our Stratham office. To keep things running smoothly, try to avoid:
Even "sugar-free" versions of these treats can pose a risk. While they may not cause cavities, these sugarless candies are still sticky enough to pull on orthodontic hardware and damage it over time.
Foods that require a significant amount of pressure to bite into can lead to loose or broken brackets and bent wires. While it may not feel like a big deal in the moment, one cracked bracket can delay your progress significantly. These issues are often avoidable with just a little planning ahead. Here’s what to steer clear of:
If a food is crunchy enough to echo across the room, it’s likely best skipped. However, some of these foods can be modified. For example, you can cut raw veggies into smaller pieces or try softer bread substitutes to enjoy your favorite treats without the risk.
Some foods may not seem harmful at first glance, but the act of biting into them with front teeth can put excessive strain on your braces. This can cause brackets, especially those on your front teeth, to become unglued or misaligned. Fortunately, there’s a simple solution: cut it up! Be mindful of foods like:
Slicing these foods into smaller, bite-sized pieces, or choosing softer alternatives, makes eating more enjoyable and protects your braces from unnecessary damage. At Great Bay Orthodontics, we believe you shouldn’t have to give up your favorite meals, just find better ways to enjoy them.
Even if a food is soft and safe on hardware, it might still cause trouble in the form of tooth decay. Sugary and acidic drinks tend to sneak into daily habits and can lead to white spots around brackets, which may permanently stain the enamel after braces are removed. Try to reduce your consumption of drinks like:
If you do indulge occasionally, try rinsing your mouth with water afterward and always brush as soon as possible. Dr. John Walsh encourages all patients to maintain strong at-home hygiene routines, paired with regular checkups, to keep your braces and your smile in top shape.
Choosing the right orthodontic practice means finding a team that treats you like family and helps you feel informed every step of the way. At Great Bay Orthodontics in Stratham, we combine expert care with a warm, welcoming atmosphere to support your smile transformation. Whether you have questions about what to eat with braces or are ready to start treatment, call (603) 944-9360 to schedule your consultation today. We’re here to guide you every bite of the way.
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