Foods to Avoid with Braces - Tips for Teens and Kids

You've got braces, now what can you eat? We rounded up our top tips for kids and teens with braces!

Sticky Foods

Sticky treats like caramel, taffy, and gummy candies are a no-go. They can cling to brackets and wires, making them difficult to clean and increasing the risk of cavities.

Hard Foods

Foods like nuts, popcorn, hard candies, and even ice can break brackets or bend wires. If your child loves crunchy snacks, try softer alternatives like cheese puffs or baked chips.

Chewy Foods

Bagels, tough bread, and chewy meats like steak can put unnecessary pressure on braces. Encourage your child to cut these foods into smaller, bite-sized pieces if they can’t avoid them entirely.

Crunchy Fruits and Veggies

While fruits and vegetables are essential for a healthy diet, biting into a whole apple or raw carrot can damage braces. Instead, slice apples thinly or steam veggies to make them softer.

Sugary Foods and Drinks

While not directly harmful to braces, sugary snacks and sodas can lead to plaque buildup around brackets, increasing the risk of cavities. Encourage water or milk instead of sugary drinks.

Stock Up on Braces - Friendly Foods

Keep your pantry and fridge filled with soft, easy-to-eat options like yogurt, mashed potatoes, scrambled eggs, pasta, and smoothies. These are not only safe for braces but also quick and convenient for busy North Dallas families!

Get Creative with Snacks

If your child misses their favorite crunchy or chewy snacks, try braces-friendly alternatives. For example, swap popcorn for puffed rice snacks or replace hard granola bars with soft-baked ones.

Plan Ahead for School Lunches

Pack lunches that are both braces-friendly and appealing. Sandwiches on soft bread, cut-up fruit, string cheese, and applesauce are great options. Want to make it fun? Let your child help plan meals and snacks! This gives them a sense of control and makes them more likely to stick to their new diet.

Accidents Happen!

Even with the best intentions, accidents happen. If your child eats something they shouldn’t and a bracket or wire gets damaged, just call our office in Frisco or Flower Mound, and we’ll help you schedule an appointment. In the meantime, orthodontic wax can help protect the inside of their mouth from irritation.

At Crossley Orthodontics in Frisco, TX, Dr. Crossley is a board-certified orthodontist with years of experience in braces treatment. Reach out for your free consultation today!