Orthodontic braces are used to straighten the teeth, which not only creates a more pleasing appearance, but also helps prevent tooth decay and other oral health problems. Braces are only effective when they are properly cared for, however. Certain foods, for example, are better suited for individuals who have braces, as opposed to hard and sticky foods that can cause damage. So, what types of foods should you or your kids eat to protect dental appliances?

The best foods to eat with braces are those that are not high in sugar and do not require excessive chewing. For breakfast, try eggs, yogurt, bacon, wheat toast, or oatmeal. Lunch may steer toward a banana rather than an apple, a salad without nuts, servings of lean proteins such as meats or fish, and a glass of water rather than sugar laden sodas or juice drinks. If you are looking for some after-school snacks for your kids, consider baked tortilla chips with salsa and guacamole, or try string cheese with fruit.

A healthy dinner can include most types of vegetables, so long as they are cooked to an appropriate softness. Pair that with a lean protein, such as fish or chicken, and follow up with dessert. Just be sure to floss and brush afterward!

Post-Tightening Foods

As braces begin to adjust the alignment of the teeth, we will periodically tighten them to continue the alignment process. After tightening occurs, the teeth may be sore and sensitive to certain foods. During this time, it is best to eat soft foods. Examples include:

• Pudding
• Mashed potatoes
• Soup
• Ice cream
• Cottage cheese
• Peas
• Pancakes
• Pasta

Foods to Avoid

According to the American Dental Association, anyone who wears braces – whether fixed or removable – should avoid excessive snacking and should aim to eat a healthy and balanced diet. It is also important to avoid foods that could cause damage to the braces, such as:

• Hard candies
• Gum
• Nuts
• Popcorn
• Certain raw vegetables (for example, carrots)

Considerations

Regardless of what types of foods you eat with braces, it is important to keep the crevices between the teeth and around the braces very clean. That means brushing and flossing after meals to prevent the build-up of plaque and decay. Not only can failing to do so damage the teeth, but it can also cause discoloration. It is also advisable to follow the professional hygiene appointment regiment proposed during your treatment planning, so that your oral health is maintained and we have a bright, healthy smile once we complete the orthodontic treatment and deband.

Have more questions about orthodontic treatment? Our team is always ready to answer all of your questions and help you get the most out of the treatment plan prescribed for you.

When patients come to our office for their first orthodontic assessment, we’re often asked, “How did my teeth get crooked to begin with?” Teeth erupt crookedly for a number of reasons, ranging from genetics to mouth deformities and serious oral diseases.

When extra teeth or abnormally large teeth create a malocclusion (crookedness or misplacement), the culprit is usually genetic in nature. Other inherited traits involve jaws that are too small to accommodate a full set of teeth, and misaligned jaws that did not form properly in vitro.
Can crooked teeth be prevented?

In most cases, underbites, overbites, and crooked teeth are genetic and can’t be avoided. Orthodontic treatment with braces will be necessary to correct the condition once your child is old enough to wear them. However, certain early childhood behaviors that may also contribute to the development of crooked teeth can be avoided. These include:

• Thumb sucking and tongue thrusting
• Losing baby teeth to decay before permanent teeth have naturally pushed them out of their sockets.
• Allowing pacifier use to continue after front teeth have erupted

Permanent teeth below baby teeth are directly affected by the health of the baby teeth. If baby teeth are prematurely lost due to decay or trauma, permanent teeth will shift when they start moving upward.

Baby teeth are like anchors for permanent teeth; they help guide them when they erupt through the gums. In addition, taking excellent care of baby teeth is vital to having healthy permanent teeth free of discoloration or decay.

Harmful oral bacteria can spread into the gums and reach down to permanent teeth that are still buried in the gums. Once attached to a tooth’s enamel, bacteria will begin eroding the tooth even before it has a chance to take its first bite!

When to Start Orthodontic Treatment for Crooked Teeth

The American Association of Orthodontists suggests, as do we, that parents take their child to an orthodontist around age seven to rule out potential issues with permanent teeth eruption. If problems are discovered, it is not unusual to begin orthodontic treatment at that age.
In fact, specific conditions such as crowding and gaps between teeth are easier to correct at an early age. Early treatment also benefits from the growth process of the jaw, which helps move teeth to normal positions.

If you have questions about your child’s teeth, simply schedule an appointment! We’re here to make sure your child grows up with a beautiful, straight, and most importantly, healthy smile.

When you have braces, you’ll need to take extra care of your teeth, as well as your new appliances. Here’s a list of things that will make your orthodontic experience more convenient, more comfortable, and more efficient.

1. A good orthodontist-recommended toothbrush. Whether you use a manual or an electric toothbrush, be sure to choose one with soft bristles. Brush in a gentle, circular motion to massage and clean your teeth and gums, and remove any food particles stuck between your wires and brackets.
2. Non-whitening toothpaste. If you use whitening toothpaste, your teeth may not whiten evenly, because the tooth surface bonded to the brackets will not be exposed to the whitening agent. Save your teeth-whitening treatment for when your braces are removed, and all teeth can be whitened evenly and at the same time.
3. A water flosser. Flossing between each bracket and wire is essential to keep your teeth healthy and your appliances intact, but it’s not easy. Try using a water flosser, such as Waterpik® or Sonicare®, which uses a stream of pressurized water to remove plaque and debris.
4. Orthodontic floss and floss threaders. If a water flosser isn’t feasible, buy floss specifically made to be used with braces. Similar to traditional floss, orthodontic floss is threaded between your teeth to remove plaque and food particles. However, orthodontic floss has a sturdy tip which makes it easier to thread under your wires.
5. Mouthwash. Cavities and gum disease can delay the outcome of your orthodontic treatment and damage your smile. An antiseptic and anti-plaque mouthwash kills plaque bacteria that can lead to cavities, gingivitis, and bad breath. Mouthwash with fluoride also helps strengthen enamel and protects against tooth decay.
6. Pain relievers. When your braces are placed, and after each adjustment, you may experience soreness and discomfort. While this is perfectly normal and temporary, you can use an over-the-counter pain reliever, such as Tylenol (Acetaminophen), as directed to ease your discomfort.
7. Soft foods. There are some foods you’ll have to avoid when you have braces. These include foods that are chewy (for example, licorice), crunchy (popcorn), sticky (caramel), and hard (nuts). To prevent damage to your braces, stick to soft foods like cheese, pudding, pancakes, mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, applesauce, and bananas.
8. Wax. Your lips, cheeks, and tongue may become irritated for one to two weeks as they become used to the braces. We would be happy to give you some wax you can put over the braces to lessen the tenderness. If you need some wax, please let us know.

Questions about what you’ll need during your orthodontic treatment? Just contact our office and ask! We’re here to make sure your time in braces is as pleasant and comfortable as possible.

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The goal of orthodontic treatment, which may include the use of braces, retainers, or aligners, is to straighten your teeth, and if necessary, correct your bite. While patients typically begin treatment during their pre-teen or teenage years, many adults are also seeking the benefits of orthodontic treatment. Orthodontics is valuable at any age, because it addresses several important issues:

• Crowded teeth spaced too close together
• Gaps between teeth
• Crooked teeth
• Overbite or underbite
• Upper and lower teeth that do not meet

Aesthetics

You are more likely to be proud of your smile when your teeth are straight and evenly spaced. Pride in your appearance can give you greater self-esteem, and may encourage you to try new things. This can be particularly important for adolescents. First impressions are best made with a straight, beautiful smile, and the confidence that goes with it.

Health

Brushing and flossing your teeth are the two basic components of an effective oral healthcare routine. But did you realize that caring for your mouth is easier when your teeth are straight? The American Dental Association states the following conditions are less likely to occur if your teeth are straight and evenly spaced:

• Dental caries (cavities)
• Gum disease or gingivitis
• Loss of teeth
• Impaired speech
• Worn tooth enamel

Orthodontic Treatment Improves Nutrition

Poorly aligned teeth can reduce your ability to chew properly. They can also make certain foods more difficult to eat. Many of the foods that become more challenging to eat are healthy, like corn or apples. Avoiding them can cause you to limit your diet to softer, less nutritious foods such as ice cream and canned soup.

Straighter teeth give you the ability to chew crunchy foods, such as apples and carrots; stringy foods, such as asparagus and chicken; and chewy foods, such as raisins. Eating a healthy, balanced diet is a cornerstone of good oral and overall health.

If you have any questions about orthodontic treatment, just give us a call! We’ll be more than happy to review all your options for a lifetime of straight, healthy smiles.