Getting braces is an exciting step towards achieving a straighter, healthier smile. But once they are fitted, many people start to wonder what they can actually eat without damaging their braces. The truth is, you can still enjoy plenty of delicious foods, but a few adjustments will help protect your braces and keep your treatment on track.
If you are starting orthodontic treatment or recently had braces fitted, this guide from ODL Dental Clinic, your trusted orthodontist in London, will help you understand what foods are safe, which ones to avoid, and how to care for your teeth along the way.
Braces work by gently moving your teeth into better positions using small brackets, wires, and bands. These parts are delicate and can be damaged by hard or sticky foods. If a bracket breaks or a wire bends, your treatment could take longer than expected.
Food also plays a big role in your oral hygiene. Some foods can easily get trapped around braces, leading to plaque build-up, staining, or even tooth decay. By choosing braces-friendly foods, you protect your teeth and make cleaning much easier.
For initial guidance on aligning teeth, many patients explore teeth straightening options before beginning treatment.
It might feel like there are a lot of restrictions, but the good news is that most foods can be enjoyed if prepared in the right way. The trick is to stick to softer textures and avoid anything that needs strong biting or chewing.
Fruits such as bananas, berries, and kiwis are gentle on braces and full of vitamins. Steamed or boiled vegetables like carrots, peas, and broccoli are also excellent choices because they are easier to chew.
If you like apples or pears, cut them into small pieces instead of biting straight into them.
For patients wearing fixed appliances, lingual braces or other systems may also influence how you approach certain foods.
Yoghurt, cheese, and milk are great for keeping your teeth strong. They are rich in calcium and protein, which support your tooth enamel during orthodontic treatment. Soft cheese and plain yoghurt are ideal snacks that will not irritate your mouth.
Soft pasta, rice, wraps, and sandwiches are all safe options. Avoid hard crusts or tough bread rolls that could bend wires or pop off brackets. Toasted bread should be eaten carefully, as over-crisped edges can be harsh on braces.
Soft chicken, turkey, mince, or flaky fish are all good choices. Slow-cooked meats or stews are especially easy to eat. Try to stay away from chewy or tough cuts of meat that require strong biting.
If your mouth feels sore after having your braces tightened, soft foods such as soups, smoothies, mashed potatoes, or porridge can be very soothing. They are also nutritious and easy to prepare.
Some foods can cause damage to braces or become trapped around them, making cleaning difficult. Avoiding these foods helps prevent emergencies and keeps your treatment on schedule.
Biting into hard foods like nuts, popcorn, crusty bread, or raw carrots can break your brackets or wires. Even chewing on ice can cause serious damage. This is especially important for those wearing metal braces or similar fixed appliances.
Toffee, caramel, and chewing gum should be completely avoided. They stick to your braces, are difficult to clean off, and can loosen your brackets.
Crisps, pretzels, and other crunchy snacks can get stuck in your braces and bend the wires. If you crave a snack, try baked alternatives that are softer on your teeth.
Excess sugar leads to plaque buildup and tooth decay. Fizzy drinks, sweets, and sugary sauces should be limited. If you do have something sweet, rinse your mouth or brush soon after.
Avoid biting directly into hard fruits like apples or raw carrots. Instead, cut them into smaller pieces or cook them until soft. Corn on the cob should also be avoided; remove the kernels first.
It is completely normal for your mouth to feel tender after getting braces or following adjustments. Here are some tips to make eating more comfortable:
Maintaining good oral hygiene while wearing braces is just as important as avoiding certain foods. Food can easily get trapped between wires, increasing the risk of plaque and decay.
Here are some helpful habits to follow:
These steps will help you keep your teeth healthy and prevent stains during your treatment. Clear aligner users such as those wearing Invisalign may find cleaning easier, but the same principles apply.
Can I eat chocolate with braces?
Yes, you can enjoy soft chocolate in moderation. Avoid chocolate with nuts, caramel, or toffee as they can damage your braces or get stuck.
Can I drink fizzy drinks with braces?
It is best to limit fizzy drinks as they are acidic and can weaken tooth enamel. If you do have one occasionally, use a straw and rinse your mouth with water afterwards.
What should I eat after my braces are tightened?
After an adjustment, your teeth may feel sensitive. Stick to soft foods like soups, mashed potatoes, yoghurt, smoothies, and scrambled eggs until the soreness fades.
Can I eat pizza with braces?
Yes, but go for a soft base and avoid crunchy or thick crusts. Cut your pizza into smaller pieces to make chewing easier.
Can I eat crisps with braces?
Crisps can be risky because they break into sharp pieces that may get caught in your braces. Choose baked or soft snacks instead.
What happens if I accidentally eat something hard?
If a wire bends or a bracket comes loose, contact your orthodontist as soon as possible. Avoid trying to fix it yourself, as this could make the problem worse.
Having braces is a commitment, but it is worth it for the confident smile you will have at the end. The key to success is following your orthodontist’s advice, attending regular check-ups, and eating sensibly.
Remember, your braces are working every day to move your teeth. By protecting them, you help your treatment finish on time and achieve the best possible result. Retainers will also be needed after treatment — learn more about retainer care to maintain your results.
At ODL Dental Clinic in London, our experienced team of orthodontists provides expert advice and care to help you achieve a straight, healthy smile. We understand that adjusting to braces can be challenging, which is why we guide every patient through their treatment with practical advice and professional support.
If you have any questions about braces, diet, or oral care, our friendly orthodontists are here to help.
Book your consultation at ODL Dental Clinic today and start your journey towards a confident, beautiful smile with trusted orthodontists in London.
