Foods to Avoid With Houston Braces

While braces are an effective way to achieve the smile you’ve always wanted, they come with sacrifices regarding your diet. Houston braces correct crooked or misaligned teeth as well as bite issues, but only if you’re disciplined in caring for them. One important aspect of orthodontic maintenance is being mindful of the things you eat. Whether you’re wearing metal or Houston ceramic braces, you could damage them if you aren’t careful about the following types of food.

Food That Gets Stuck

Since braces are composed of tiny brackets and wires, food gets easily stuck in practically any corner. Avoid nuts, seeds, and popcorn, as they can settle in areas that are hard to reach with a toothbrush. Food that gets stuck in your Houston braces means creating a breeding ground for bacteria. These bacteria are what cause cavities, tartar, and other tooth caries.

Food That Is Sticky

Examples of sticky food that your Houston dentist will tell you to avoid are chewing gum, candy, taffy, and licorice. If you have a sweet tooth for these treats, it’s time you consume them in moderation. Especially for children, it’s important to remind them to brush their teeth immediately after eating these sticky delights. As a parent, you can offer them only after mealtime instead of serving them as a snack.

Food That Is Too Crunchy

Even though your Houston family dentist made sure to cement your brackets in place, they can still get damaged from food that is too hard. Crunchy stuff like chips, tacos shells, pretzels, tough vegetables, and even ice should be avoided. They can cause the wires and brackets to loosen and break. Although your Houston braces can be repaired, it’s still an inconvenience having to visit the dentist for emergency purposes.

Honorable Mentions

Another food type to avoid are those that you have to bite into, such as corn on the cob, whole apples, and hard bread. You can easily lose a bracket or two for these foods. Instead, slice them into bite-size pieces to save yourself an unexpected trip to the dental office.

Food You Can Enjoy

Having Houston braces doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy delicious food that you love. There is still a wide assortment of food that is good for your dental treatment. Mashed potatoes, pasta, yogurt, soft fruit, cheese, and peanut butter are just a few examples. Being informed on what can damage your braces will get you to your desired smile faster.

Schedule an Appointment for Houston Braces

Are you considering getting Houston braces to boost your confidence and improve your oral health? Visit Centra Dental where we embrace your smiles. Our top-rated Houston dentist provides all vital dental services, such as cleaning, filings, root canals, and more. We have surgically clean air circulating for your protection. We prioritize cleanliness and the safety of our patients and staff. Why visit Centra Dental? We strive to make your dental experience as pleasant and stress-free as possible. Ask us about dental insurance we accept as well as dental service specials!