When you get traditional braces, there are a lot of changes that comes with it. Not only are there lots of metal and wiring in your mouth to get used to, but there are also lots of lifestyle changes that will take place while your teeth are straightening out. One of these changes is your new diet.
Because brackets are attached to your teeth using a basic dental cement, eating foods that are extra hard or sticky can cause the brackets to pop off, which will mean an unexpected dental visit for repair and delaying your treatment. Even though our braces and wires are metal, and we consider metal to be very strong, they are fragile and are usually damaged by eating the wrong foods. Not only that, but food that cannot be cleaned off braces with a simple brushing and flossing may lead to discoloration and decay of your teeth. We are trying to get a straight smile – why ruin it with discoloration and decay from lack of care? To keep you on track of your new dietary restrictions, keep this general list of things to avoid while correcting the flaws:
- Absolutely no gum, sugarless or otherwise
- Chewy foods like bagels, hard rolls and licorice
- Crunchy foods, such as popcorn, ice and chips
- Sticky foods, including caramels, taffy and gum
- Hard foods like nuts are healthy but can break your teeth like hard candy
- Crispy foods you bite into, like corn on the cob, apples or carrots
- Also avoid biting into non-food items, such as nail-biting and pencil-chewing habits
So, as you can see, there will be some definite changes, but you’re getting a prettier smile – it’s just a temporary inconvenience to achieve the smile you’ve always wanted.
For more information regarding eating with braces, contact Drs. Freund and Waterloo today at 847-251-8990 or visit www.villagedentalpc.com.
Drs. Chad Freund and Cathy Waterloo proudly serves Kenilworth and all surrounding areas.