
Eating with Braces
Foods to Avoid with Braces
Eating the right foods is just as important as brushing and flossing when it comes to caring for your braces. At Seattle Braces, Dr. C. Neil Nicholson helps patients protect their appliances and get the best possible results by recommending smart food choices throughout treatment.
Why Food Choices Matter
Braces are strong, but they’re not indestructible. Certain foods can bend wires, break brackets, or cause discomfort — which can delay your treatment. Avoiding the wrong foods helps keep your orthodontic progress on track and minimizes emergency visits.
What to Avoid with Braces
Here are some foods to steer clear of while wearing braces:
❌ Sticky Foods
Caramel
Chewing gum
Taffy
Gummy candies
Sticky foods can get stuck in your braces and pull on wires or brackets, leading to damage or cavities.
❌ Hard Foods
Nuts
Ice
Hard candies
Popcorn kernels
Raw carrots or whole apples (unless cut into small pieces)
These foods can crack or loosen parts of your braces, and may be difficult to clean around.
❌ Crunchy Snacks
Chips
Hard pretzels
Crusty bread (like baguettes)
Corn on the cob (cut off the cob if you want to enjoy it)
Crunchy foods can put too much pressure on your brackets and wires.
Braces-Friendly Alternatives
You don’t have to give up flavor or fun while wearing braces. Try these orthodontist-approved alternatives:
✅ Soft fruits (bananas, berries, applesauce)
✅ Cooked veggies (steamed carrots, mashed potatoes)
✅ Dairy (yogurt, cheese, milkshakes)
✅ Soft grains (pasta, rice, soft bread)
✅ Lean, tender meats (chicken, meatballs, fish)
Eating softer, non-sticky foods will keep your braces intact and your smile progressing smoothly.
Tips for Eating with Braces
Cut food into small, bite-sized pieces
Chew slowly and carefully
Avoid biting into hard items with your front teeth
Rinse and brush after meals to prevent food buildup
Protect Your Braces — Protect Your Progress
Following these food guidelines may seem like a big change, but it’s a temporary step toward a lifetime of better oral health and a straighter smile. If you ever have questions about what’s safe to eat, just ask Dr. Nicholson or any team member at Seattle Braces. Call (206) 722-5000 if you need help or experience an issue with your braces.