Braces and Invisalign: What Foods to Avoid During Treatment
Braces and Invisalign: What Foods to Avoid During Treatment
A healthy diet is essential for good oral health, but when you're undergoing orthodontic treatment with braces or Invisalign, you need to be extra mindful of what you eat. Some foods can damage brackets, delay treatment, or stain aligners. To ensure a smooth orthodontic journey, here's a guide to what foods you should avoid and why.
Foods to Avoid with Braces
Braces have brackets and wires that can break if not handled with care. Eating the wrong foods can lead to extra visits to the orthodontist for repairs.
Hard & Crunchy Foods
Popcorn – Kernels can get stuck and damage brackets
Nuts – Too hard and can snap wires
Hard candies – Can break brackets and are high in sugar
Raw vegetables (like carrots) – Need to be cut into smaller pieces before eating
Sticky & Chewy Foods
Chewing gum – Can get tangled in braces
Caramel & toffees – Sticky and can pull brackets loose
Gummy candies – High sugar content and hard to clean off braces
Sugary & Acidic Foods
Soda & energy drinks – Can erode enamel around brackets
Sugary snacks (cookies, chocolates) – Increase plaque buildup
Citrus fruits – Too much acid can weaken enamel
Foods to Avoid with Invisalign
Since Invisalign aligners are removable, there are fewer food restrictions. However, some foods can stain aligners or increase plaque buildup, affecting your treatment.
Avoid Eating While Wearing Aligners
Any solid food – Can damage aligners and trap food
Hot drinks (coffee, tea) – Can warp the plastic material
Minimize Staining Foods & Drinks
Coffee, tea & red wine – Can cause aligners to discolor
Dark berries (blueberries, blackberries) – Can leave stains
Tomato-based sauces – Can cause yellowing over time
Sticky or Sugary Snacks
Candies, sodas, and desserts – Can lead to cavities
Chewy foods (like bagels) – Can push against shifting teeth
Safe & Braces/Invisalign-Friendly Foods
Soft fruits (bananas, berries, peeled apples)
Dairy (yogurt, cheese, milk)
Cooked vegetables (steamed carrots, mashed potatoes)
Soft proteins (eggs, fish, tofu)
Whole grains (pasta, soft bread, rice)
Choosing the right foods during orthodontic treatment can prevent damage, reduce treatment time, and maintain oral health. Whether you have braces or Invisalign, being mindful of your diet will ensure a smooth journey to a perfect smile. If you're unsure about a particular food, consult your orthodontist!