Foods Your Children Should Avoid When They Have Braces

Posted on March 3, 2025

Getting braces is a significant milestone for many children as they embark on their journey to a perfect smile. However, adjusting to having them can be challenging, especially when it comes to dietary restrictions. It’s essential to understand which foods to avoid to ensure that your child’s orthodontic appliances remain intact and effective. This article will discuss some of the most common foods that should be avoided during orthodontic treatment and why steering clear of these items is crucial for your child’s dental health.

Sticky and Chewy Foods: Why They’re a Major Concern for Orthodontic Treatment

Sticky and chewy foods are at the top of the list of what to avoid. These foods can easily get stuck in dental gear, making them difficult to clean and increasing the risk of plaque buildup. Candies such as caramels, gummy bears, and taffy can pull at the wires and brackets, potentially causing damage that might require an additional orthodontist visit. Especially when you consider that, according to HowStuffWorks, orthodontists estimate that roughly 45% of children need braces, ensuring these avoidable disruptions is critical for a large portion of the young population.

Hard Foods That Can Cause Damage and Prolong Treatment

Hard foods are another category that can cause significant issues for children with orthodontic appliances. Items like nuts, popcorn, and ice can be particularly troublesome, often leading to broken brackets or bent wires. The impact of biting into something hard can easily dislodge the careful work of the orthodontist, leading to a possible extension of the treatment timeline. Encouraging your child to choose softer alternatives will help in maintaining their aligners in good condition.

The Impact of Sugary Snacks on Oral Health and Treatment

Lastly, sugary foods and drinks should also be minimized while wearing aligners. Not only do they contribute to tooth decay, but they can also stain teeth around the brackets. This can leave unsightly marks once they are removed, hindering the visual appeal of the straightened teeth. Opting for healthier snacks and drinks, such as fruits, vegetables, and water, will benefit your child’s overall oral health and help maintain their braces’ effectiveness.

Avoiding certain foods is an essential part of ensuring a smooth and successful orthodontic treatment. By steering clear of sticky, hard, and sugary foods, your child will not only protect their braces but also promote better oral health. Encouraging healthy eating habits will contribute to a more comfortable experience and pave the way to achieving that beautiful, confident smile. Contact Jacaranda Smiles to schedule your child’s appointment today!