Eating With Orthodontic Appliances

Diet and Oral Hygiene

There are certain dietary habits that are known to cause breakage of orthodontic appliances, as well as increase the risk of dental disease. We aim to achieve the treatment goals with as few disturbances as possible due to appliance breakage, and to minimize the side affects of poor diet choices. Remember, teeth move best in a healthy environment and in individuals with excellent overall health. Be sure you have a well-balanced diet.

Potential Harm to Your Teeth and Gums

Foods and drinks that may cause dental caries (cavities) should be restricted while wearing braces. Sticky food is to be avoided because of the increased risk of dental decay and appliance breakage. This type of food sticks to braces and remains on your teeth for long periods of time. If food or drinks high in sugar content are to be consumed, we advise having them with regular meals or at one given time of day. Please make sure that careful brushing and rinsing take place immediately afterwards. Between-meal snacks should be confined to foods without refined sugar, and should be followed by brushing or vigorous rinsing.

Potential Harm to Your Braces

Braces are attached to your teeth with an adhesive that normally will withstand the forces of eating. However, braces can be dislodged and wires bent or broken while eating certain foods.

Foods that are appealing, but dangerous during orthodontic treatment:
  • Chewing ice will destroy your braces.
  • Sticky food or candy of any kind (taffy, caramels, Tootsie Rolls, Gummy Bears, Now and Laters) damage appliances by bending wires and pulling cement loose.
  • Hard food or candy of any kind (Jolly Ranchers, pizza crust, hard pretzels, beef jerky, Doritos, Fritos, Cornuts, raw carrots, nuts) may do damage by bending wires, loosening cement under the bands or breaking the little brackets and tubes that are attached.
  • Foods high in sugar content (cake, cookies, ice cream) should be avoided whenever possible. If you do eat them, brush your teeth immediately. If it is not convenient to brush, then always rinse your mouth with clear water after eating sweet foods.

Remember, if you have any questions about dietary restrictions or good food choices, please ask!

Patient Testimonials

  • “I’ve waited almost 50 years to get my teeth straightened and this place is the BEST!! Appletree Orthodontics is a warm and friendly place with awesome staff! They really know how to make you feel comfortable and make the process enjoyable! Five stars is not enough…THANK YOU from the bottom of my heart for giving me my smile back!”
    ─ John
  • “I'd contemplated braces my entire adult life. The last photo I had of me smiling was when I was 17 years old. I had so many fears and reservations. Thanks to Apple Tree, and their incredible staff, I can finally smile again! My only regret was waiting so long. Smiling again at age 44.”
    ─ T.P.
  • “This is our third child just out of braces! We are extreamly pleased with Appletree Orthodontics! Everyone there is welcoming and fantastic at what they do!”
    ─ Kristy S.
  • “Absolutely love and adore the entire staff! They discuss and talk with the patient about both needs and wants. They talked to me about everything! They made sure I was comfortable and happy. When I was supposed to be done I felt as if somethings weren't complete yet. When I came into my next appointment they listened and agreed. They truly are the best people to work with!”
    ─ Adrienne
  • “I love apple tree! My braces are finally off and I am beyond happy with the results! Thank you.”
    ─ GG
  • ““I had a very extensive treatment process and the entire staff was very helpful, kind and friendly every step of the way! My experience with them couldn’t have been better! I love the way my teeth came out!”
    ─ Aamelie
  • “Apple Tree is really a great place. It's an all around happy environment, and everyone is friendly. I've never waited for longer than 5 minutes for any appointment! Perfect for anyone of any age, and really helped motivate me to get my teeth straight!”
    ─ Maddie
  • “My experience at apple tree has been incredible! All of the staff is hospitable along with accommodating to every one of my wants and needs! Highly recommend to any body looking to put their kid through braces or Invisalign.”
    ─ Alex
  • “Apple Tree Orthodontic is an all around great place. The people there are fantastic. They’re always smiling always asking how your day is. I never had any bad experiences there due to the fact that they are awesome. 10/10 recommended coming here for your teeth!”
    ─ Gavin

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