Life can go on quite normally with braces. However, there are a few factors to keep in mind to protect your teeth and ensure the treatment progress is effective.

Foods to Avoid with Braces

“Chewy, Gooey, and Hard”– This is the easiest way to remember which foods to avoid when wearing braces. Very sticky foods such as caramel or taffy can cause problems. Also, very hard foods like ice and hard candy can be damaging to braces. We will give you a comprehensive list after you get your braces put on; however, here are a few to avoid:

• Chewy foods — bagels, licorice
• Crunchy foods — popcorn, chips, ice
• Sticky foods — caramel candies, chewing gum
• Hard foods — nuts, hard candies
• Foods that require biting into — corn on the cob, apples, carrots

Playing Sports with Braces

Feel free to continue playing sports; however, a mouth guard is necessary to protect your teeth and your braces. Let us know if you need help finding the right mouthguard for the best protection. In case of a sports emergency, please check your mouth and braces immediately for damage, and if found, please call our office.

Brushing Your Teeth with Braces

Patients should attempt to brush their teeth at least 3 times a day: after meals and before going to bed at night. Regular flossing is also very important for your teeth. We will show you the best way to floss while you have braces on.

If you need help choosing the right toothbrush, toothpaste, and dental floss, please ask us, and we can help you choose the right products.

Check out the frequently asked questions we receive about braces: