Orthodontics - Life with Braces
You've made an excellent decision when it comes to the care of your teeth and the creation of your new dazzling smile! Your braces will be attached quickly and easily to your teeth. The bands will require a full day though to completely affix. It is a good idea to wait several hours after getting braces before eating solid food. You may find it easier to eat soft foods for the first couple of days, while you become accustomed to eating with your new braces.
Eating Right
Braces are attached to your teeth with a strong adhesive, but as a result of eating certain foods they can become loose. It is also possible that wires may bend or break without proper care. Since it is best to achieve orthodontic treatment goals with as few disruptions as possible, a well balanced diet is important to ensure a healthy environment for your teeth.
To give your teeth a healthy environment, avoid foods that are sticky, hard or chewy. Also avoid any food and drink that are known to cause cavities such as soda and sugary juices. All natural juices are alright in moderation. Make sure to brush, floss and rinse your mouth regularly between meals.
The foods below are known to cause breakage of orthodontic appliances and should NOT be eaten:
- gum
- beef jerky
- nuts
- hard or sticky candy
- corn chips
- crisp taco shells
- whole apples
- celery
- caramel
- taffy
- popcorn
- soft drinks
- candy bars
Eating any of these foods can cause problems resulting in extra visits for repairs. More importantly and ultimately, it will extend the length of your orthodontic treatment. You’ll have plenty of time to enjoy these restricted foods after completing your treatment. But, if you have any questions about food choice, please call us to discuss.
