Braces Friendly Foods: Braces is not an easy but necessary journey. Only with braces can you achieve a beautiful straight smile. They can fix your crowding, spacing, overbites, underbites, and about every other problem with your teeth arrangement.

We acknowledge the significant impact braces have on your daily life. They may not look appealing, can be uncomfortable, and require considerable time before showing noticeable results. Additionally, you have to be cautious about the types of food you consume while wearing braces. We understand the challenges and frustrations involved, but it’s important to remember the end goal – envision how incredible your smile will be once the braces are removed.

Why are food restrictions with braces?

If you or someone you know is undergoing orthodontic treatment in Oakdale with braces, you might be familiar with the dietary restrictions that come along with it. While it may seem inconvenient and restrictive, understanding the reasons behind these food restrictions is essential for maintaining oral health and achieving the desired results of your orthodontic journey.

Protecting Your Braces

One primary reason for food restrictions with braces is to protect orthodontic appliances. Certain foods can damage or dislodge brackets, wires, or bands, prolonging your treatment time and even leading to discomfort. Hard, sticky, or chewy foods pose the greatest risk, as they can get stuck in the braces or apply excessive force, potentially causing damage.

Preventing Tooth Decay

Another crucial aspect is safeguarding your teeth from potential complications during orthodontic treatment. Braces create additional nooks and crannies where food particles accumulate, making thorough cleaning more challenging. Sugary and starchy foods, in particular, increase the risk of tooth decay and cavities. Avoiding these foods can minimize the chances of developing oral health issues during your orthodontic journey.

Promoting Efficient Treatment

Food restrictions are vital in promoting efficient and effective orthodontic treatment. Consuming the wrong types of food can interfere with the movement of teeth and affect the overall alignment process. By adhering to the recommended dietary guidelines, you support the desired tooth movement, helping your treatment progress smoothly and in a timely manner.

Ensuring Comfort

Certain foods, especially hard and crunchy items, can create discomfort and irritation for individuals with braces. Chewing on these foods can pressure sensitive teeth and gums, leading to soreness and potential inflammation. By following the food restrictions, you can minimize any unnecessary discomfort and enjoy a more pleasant orthodontic experience.

 

What are the common Braces Friendly Foods?

It is not really about what is friendly but rather what is not. A few food items are considered a big No-No for braces wearers, including:

  • Hard Foods:

    Hard foods such as popcorn, nuts, chips and hard fruits such as pears and apples are all highly inadvisable for the reasons we mentioned before. Biting on a hard object could either break the bracket itself or the bond between the bracket and the tooth.

  • Sticky Foods:

    Sticky foods such as toffee, caramel, and gum are also prohibited. While they can’t cause enough force to break the bracket itself, they can stick to it and force it off the tooth. Not only that, but sticky foods, in general, are a big pet peeve for dentists and orthodontists since they are almost impossible to clean.

Final Words

All this talk is regarding the fixed type of braces. Traditional metallic braces, clear braces, and lingual braces are all attached to the surface of the teeth, and only the orthodontist can remove them. Invisalign, on the other hand, is a removable type of brace. You can remove it when you eat or brush your teeth; therefore, all foods are permitted. There is no danger of something breaking or difficulty in teeth cleaning. You can eat whatever you want, so consider that when choosing the type of Braces Friendly Foods that suits you best.

Contact Pezlodt Orthodontics in Oakdale, CA, today to schedule an appointment and experience compassionate, top-quality orthodontic treatment with us.