Here Are the Top Food and Drinks to Avoid with Braces
If you’re considering braces or invisalign, you’re in good company. Many people wear braces to improve their smile or correct their bite. Invisalign, surely, is a popular alternative to traditional braces.
Your braces or Invisalign are an important investment in your smile. Taking proper care of them will ensure you get the most out of your treatment and avoid unnecessary complications. One of the best ways to take care of your braces is to avoid certain food and drinks, but which ones do you need to avoid?
What Food and Drinks to Avoid
If you’re lucky enough to have straight teeth, you probably don’t think much about what you can and can’t eat with braces or Invisalign. But for those sporting metal brackets or clear aligners, we have to be a bit more careful about our food and drink choices.
Here are some of the worst offenders when it comes to food and drink for those with braces or Invisalign:
1. Hard Candy
Candy is generally a no-no for those with braces, but hard candy is especially dangerous. Not only can it break brackets and wires, but it can also get stuck in between your teeth and cause decay.
2. Chewy Candy
Chewy candy can still do a number on your teeth even if it doesn’t break your brackets. The sticky residue can adhere to your teeth and cause plaque build-up, leading to tooth decay.
3. Gum
Gum is another food that can get stuck in between your teeth and cause plaque build-up. It’s best to avoid gum altogether while you have braces or Invisalign.
4. Ice
Chewing on ice is a bad idea for many reasons. First, it can break brackets and wires. Second, the cold temperature can cause tooth sensitivity. Third, the hard texture can damage tooth enamel. All of these factors can lead to serious dental problems, so avoiding chewing on ice altogether is best.
5. Nuts
Nuts may be a healthy snack option, but they can pose a risk for those with braces. The hard texture of nuts can break brackets and wires, and the kernels can become lodged in between teeth. For individuals with braces, it is best to avoid nuts altogether or eat them in moderation.
6. Popcorn
Popcorn is one of the most dangerous foods for braces. The hard kernels can damage tooth enamel, and the popped kernels can get stuck in braces and cause irritation.
7. Sticky Foods
Caramel, taffy, and other such sticky sweets can be dangerous for those with braces, as the sticky residue can adhere to your teeth and cause plaque build-up. This can lead to tooth decay, so it’s best to avoid these foods altogether.
8. Acidic Foods and Drinks
Acidic foods and drinks can be dangerous for those with braces. The acid can damage tooth enamel, and the high acidity can break brackets and wires.
9. Ice Cream
The hard texture of ice cream can damage tooth enamel, so it’s important to eat it in moderation. And because ice cream is high in sugar, it can also lead to cavities. So be sure to brush your teeth after eating ice cream.
Conclusion
While braces are a great way to improve your smile, they require extra care. Avoid these foods and drinks to keep your braces in good condition. And if you have any questions, be sure to ask your orthodontist.
Do you need a dental cleaning in Southborough? You can visit Southborough Dental Partners. We offer a wide variety of dental treatments for all your needs. Book an appointment with us at Southborough Dental Partners.
