Best and Worst Foods to Eat with Braces in 2025: What to Avoid and Enjoy

Orthodontists often recommend braces to straighten teeth, close gaps, or correct bite issues like overbites and underbites. While braces can transform your smile, adjusting to them involves more than just getting used to the feel—they also require changes in your diet to protect your investment.

Initially, braces can cause discomfort or soreness as your mouth adapts to the pressure. This sensitivity usually lasts for a few days to a week. During this time, eating soft foods is essential to minimize pain and avoid damage.

Soft Foods to Eat Right After Getting Braces

Right after your braces are placed, focus on soft, easy-to-chew foods that won’t irritate your gums or damage the brackets and wires. Recommended options include:

• Mashed potatoes
• Yogurt
• Warm soups
• Scrambled eggs
• Oatmeal and soft grains
• Cooked seafood
• Soft fruits like bananas and berries
• Soft cheeses
• Steamed or cooked vegetables
• Moist desserts
• Pasta

These foods help you adjust comfortably while keeping your braces intact.

Foods to Avoid Immediately After Getting Braces

Certain foods can increase discomfort or risk damaging your braces during the initial adjustment period. Avoid these until your mouth feels more comfortable:

• Ice cream (due to cold sensitivity)
• Thick rolls or crusty bread
• Chewy or tough meats
• Spicy foods that may irritate gums
• Citrus fruits that can cause sensitivity

Once your mouth adapts, you can gradually reintroduce these foods in moderation.

Long-Term Foods to Avoid While Wearing Braces

Throughout your orthodontic treatment, certain foods should be completely avoided to prevent damage to your braces, including:

• Popcorn kernels
• Nuts
• Ice cubes
• Chewing gum
• Hard and sticky candies
• Pizza crusts and bagels
• Crunchy raw vegetables and fruits
• Hard crackers, pretzels, and chips

Also, limit sugary snacks and drinks as they promote plaque buildup, which is harder to clean with braces and can lead to tooth decay.

What to Do If Your Braces Get Damaged

If wires or bands become loose or broken, avoid trying to fix them yourself. Instead, cover any sharp edges with orthodontic wax or a piece of wet cotton to prevent injury and contact your orthodontist promptly. Ignoring damage can delay your treatment progress.

Maintaining Excellent Oral Hygiene With Braces

Good dental care is crucial when wearing braces. Brush at least three times daily with a soft-bristled toothbrush, paying special attention to cleaning around brackets and wires. Use floss threaders to effectively remove food trapped between teeth and braces. Regular dental checkups and professional cleanings help prevent cavities and gum disease during treatment. Your dentist may also recommend fluoride mouthwash to strengthen enamel and reduce decay risk.

Additional Tips for Eating With Braces

To protect your braces, try chewing with your back teeth instead of your front teeth, especially when eating tougher foods. This technique reduces pressure on brackets and wires, minimizing the chance of breakage.

Summary

Braces are a powerful tool to enhance your smile, but they require mindful eating habits and diligent oral care. Stick to soft foods initially, avoid hard or sticky items throughout treatment, and maintain excellent hygiene to ensure the best results. Consult your orthodontist with any questions to keep your braces in top condition and complete your treatment on schedule.

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