Things to avoid eating with braces

Dental Office

In a few days, you will be getting your braces on your teeth. You’re probably thinking everyone will notice, they will hurt, your life will never be the same. In truth, not many people will notice and if they do, it will not be a big deal because you don’t look much different than before. You personally will notice the braces more than anyone else because your mouth will feel twice the size it was prior to getting them on. 

Will they hurt? Honestly, your mouth will be a little sore for the first week or so but after that, they’re pretty painless. You will likely have to go monthly for adjustments and you may be a bit sore for that day but if you look at it as is every time your mouth hurts your teeth are getting closer and closer to the end result — a beautiful, healthy smile, it can be easier to handle. At John Redmond Orthodontics, we want you to have the best experience during your treatment with the least amount of discomfort. 

Before you leave a San Clemente, CA dental office, like one at John Redmond Orthodontics, you will be given a list of things you shouldn’t eat or do now that you have braces. This is because you may loosen a bracket, disconnect a wire, or otherwise interfere with the job of the braces.

No Gum or Sticky Foods

Anything that can stick to your teeth is definitely not a good idea when you have braces. Chewing gum not only can pull on your brackets and wires, but the constant chewing can also put stress on the bands, wires, and brackets, causing them to move, break, or cause you undue pain. 

Chewing Ice

This is a no brainer. Chewing ice is not good for your teeth, with or without braces. It is really bad with braces because biting down on an ice cube can bend a wire or break a bracket. This will require a visit to the orthodontist to repair. Many times when a wire breaks, the sharp end can rub against the inside of your mouth and be very painful.

Not Removing Your Bands When You Eat

It should be easy to remember — especially after the first bite — but not removing your bands when you eat can be gross. They can get really dirty and caked with food, or they could snap. This could be painful and you could possibly swallow the band. It won’t hurt you if you do, but it’s better to take the bands out prior eating.

Not Flossing

Flossing is important with or without braces. It is more difficult to floss with braces, but food does get caught between the wire, bracket, and tooth so you really should floss. If you don’t, plaque builds up and starts to eat away your enamel, damaging your tooth’s structure. It may be an inconvenience, but the end result will be worth it.

This list is not inclusive and the ‘don’ts’ may seem overwhelming now; however, it becomes common nature the longer you have your braces. If you can focus on how your teeth and smile will look after you get the braces off, the time will pass faster. At John Redmond Orthodontics, we like to work with our patients to make the time you spend in our office tolerable — even enjoyable! You may even meet new friends going through the same issues.