Foods to Avoid When Your Child Is New to Braces

Braces are a versatile orthodontic treatment that can align your child's teeth to create a smile that is both beautiful and easier to keep clean. Helping your child be mindful of what they eat during this time is essential for their orthodontic success and oral health. By following these guidelines, your child can protect their braces, minimize discomfort, and maintain good dental health.

Hard & Crunchy Foods

Hard and crunchy foods can pose a risk to braces, as they can bend wires, dislodge brackets, and cause wires to poke the gums. Encourage your child to avoid foods like hard candies, nuts, popcorn, and crunchy chips during their orthodontic treatment. Instead, opt for softer foods that are easy on braces, such as smoothies, yogurt, mashed potatoes, pasta, and steamed vegetables.

Sticky & Chewy Foods

Sticky and chewy foods can get stuck in braces and be very difficult to remove properly. These foods include caramel, taffy, gum, gummy candies, and fruit snacks. Eating these treats can pull on wires and brackets, causing discomfort and potential damage. Opt for snacks like sliced fruits, grapes, cheese, and applesauce.

Tough Meats & Hard Breads

Tough meats and hard bread require a lot of force to chew, which can strain braces and wires. It's best to avoid foods like steak, tough cuts of meat, hard rolls, and bagels. Encourage your child to choose tender meats, shredded chicken or pork, and softer bread options, like English muffins, during their orthodontic treatment. Your child can also minimize potential damage to their braces by cutting their food into small pieces and using their back molars to chew instead of biting with their front teeth.

Chewing on Non-Food Items

Remind your child to avoid chewing on non-food items like ice, pens, pencils, and fingernails. These habits put unnecessary pressure on their braces and increase the risk of damage and displacement.

Your Orthodontist in Littleton, CO

Remember, regular dental and orthodontic checkups and daily oral hygiene are crucial for ensuring optimal results from your child’s orthodontic treatment. If you have any questions or concerns, please consult with our team for personalized guidance and support.

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