Getting braces is an important step toward a healthier, straighter smile. Once you do get braces, you will have to make some changes to your eating habits that will protect your braces and help to keep your treatment on track. Some foods will bend wires, break brackets, or cause tooth decay. What foods should you avoid with braces? Let’s break it all down simply so you can make smart choices and go through a smoother braces process.
Why Is It Important to Watch What You Eat with Braces?
Braces are made of delicate parts, such as brackets and wires. These parts can easily become damaged by the types of foods you eat. Damaged braces can lead to longer treatment and more appointments with your orthodontist. In addition, some foods will also become stuck in your braces, making it that much harder to keep your teeth clean and healthy.
If you are working with a dentist in SW Calgary, they will likely give you a list of food guidelines to follow, and following those guidelines can be one of the easiest choices to avoid a hassle.
What Foods Should You Avoid With Braces?
When it comes to Braces in SW Calgary, one of the more common questions patients ask is, “What can I eat now?” The truth is, there are some foods you need to avoid altogether, and they are usually hard, crunchy, sticky, or chewy.
Here is the breakdown:
| Avoid These Foods | Why They’re Bad |
| Hard candy, nuts, and ice | Can break or loosen brackets and wires |
| Chewing gum, caramel, toffee | Stick to braces which are tough to clean |
| Popcorn and chips | Get stuck under wires, which may cause damage (can you eat chips and popcorn with braces?) |
| Raw vegetables like carrots | Too hard to bite into and can break your brackets |
| Bagels and hard rolls | Chewy and hard to tear apart with braces |
What Foods Are Safe to Eat with Braces?
There are still plenty of delicious things to eat that are easy on your braces and safe to eat. Below is a list of soft foods safe for braces:
- Mashed potatoes
- Yogurt
- Scrambled eggs
- Cooked pasta and rice
- Steamed vegetables
- Soft fruits like bananas or ripe peaches
- Pancakes and soft breads
- Soups
- Smoothies
Soft foods are less likely to get lodged in your braces or damage them and are a safe go-to food for daily meals or if your teeth are sore after an adjustment.
Can You Ever Eat Crunchy or Chewy Foods Again?
Yes—but not while your braces are on. It’s only temporary! You can gradually start to include the foods you have avoided once your treatment is complete. In the meantime, find creative ways to enjoy your favourite foods in safer forms. For example, air-popped popcorn without kernels or well-cooked apples turned into soft applesauce.
If you are ever uncertain about what’s ok and what is not, checking with a dentist near you is always a good option.
Why Sticky Foods Are Bad for Braces
Sticky foods like gum, caramel, and chewy candy are a big no with braces. Not only do they pull on the brackets and wires, but they also stick to your teeth and braces, making it hard to clean properly. This can lead to cavities, plaque buildup, and even gum issues. That’s why sticky foods are bad for braces—not just because they can break things, but also because they can harm your overall oral health.
They can also cause food to get trapped in hard-to-reach spots, increasing your risk of bad breath and infections. Choosing braces-friendly snacks helps keep your smile healthy and your treatment on track.
Foods That Can Damage Braces, Brackets, and Wires
It’s important to know the foods that can damage braces, brackets and wires so you can avoid extra trips to your orthodontist. Here’s a quick list to keep in mind:
- Corn on the cob (cut it off before eating)
- Tough meat (go for slow-cooked or shredded meats instead)
- Pizza crust or hard breadsticks
- Crunchy chips
- Apples (cut into small pieces or cook them)
Always think about texture. If it’s hard, chewy, or sticky, skip it for now.
Keep Your Braces and Smile Safe with Cedarbrae Family Dental
Your braces journey is all about getting to that confident, healthy smile. Choosing the right foods plays a huge role in how quickly and smoothly you get there. If you’re ever unsure or have questions, the team at Cedarbrae Family Dental is here to guide you through every step, from braces-friendly eating tips to making your appointments feel easy.
Need advice or want to book a check-up? Let Cedarbrae Family Dental be your trusted partner. We’re ready to help you protect your smile, avoid unwanted surprises, and keep your treatment on track. Book your visit today and get the guidance you need to make braces life a breeze!