Eating Habits With Braces

A careful orthodontic patient can probably eat almost any food and not damage the appliance (braces).

HARD FOODS may do damage by bending the wire, loosening the cement under the bands, or breaking the brackets and tubes that are attached to the bands. Some of the foods of this type are listed below with ways they may be eaten — if practical.

• CORN ON THE COB - Should be cut off the cob.
• RAW CARROTS - Cut into carrot “curls” which are thin. Chew with the back teeth.
• CELERY - Chew with the back teeth.
• APPLES - Cut into wedges.
• POPCORN - ABSOLUTELY NOT!! The hard kernels are destructive to the wires and brackets! The husks can get trapped between teeth and gums causing serious swelling and infection.
• HARD BREAD - Tear off pieces and DON'T bite into the crust with the front teeth.
• ICE CUBES - DON'T chew ice cubes! NOT EVEN CHEWY ICE!
• BONES - DON'T CHEW ON BONES! Always cut the meat of the bone.

STICKY FOODS damage appliances by bending the wires and pulling the cement seal loose. Stay away from gummy bears, taffy, sugar daddies, caramels, and gum. *Sometimes it is O.K. fo chew sugarless gum for the first two days after your appointment if your teeth really hurt — the chewing action helps the teeth feel better.

FOODS HIGH IN SUGAR CONTENT should be avoided — especially between meals! Brush your teeth thoroughly and immediately after eating to prevent any decalcification.

Take your toothbrush to school with you!