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Eating with Braces: What to Eat, What to Avoid, and How to Adapt
Eating with braces doesn’t have to be boring—it just takes a little practice and a few smart swaps. Whether you’ve just started your braces journey or you’re helping your child adapt, here’s how to make mealtime easier, safer, and more braces-friendly.
Why Eating Changes with Braces
Braces work by gently shifting your teeth into alignment. To do that safely, the brackets and wires need to stay intact. Hard, sticky, and chewy foods can damage your braces or cause discomfort. By choosing the right foods, you’ll protect your orthodontic investment and keep your smile on track.
Braces-Friendly Foods to Love
Here are some go-to favorites that are soft, easy to chew, and kind to your brackets:
Soft Breakfast Ideas
- Scrambled eggs
- Oatmeal or cream of wheat
- Pancakes or waffles (no crunchy toppings)
- Yogurt with soft fruit
Lunch & Dinner Favorites
- Mac and cheese
- Mashed potatoes or rice
- Soft pasta dishes (think ravioli or spaghetti)
- Cooked vegetables (steamed carrots, green beans, squash)
- Ground meat, shredded chicken, or tofu
Snacks & Sweets
- Applesauce, pudding, Jell-O
- Smoothies, milkshakes, frozen yogurt
- Soft baked goods like banana bread or muffins (without nuts)
- Ice cream (no mix-ins like nuts or candy pieces)
What NOT to Eat with Braces
Some foods can pop a bracket or bend a wire—causing delays in your treatment. Here’s what to avoid:
Hard & Crunchy
- Chips, pretzels, popcorn
- Nuts and hard granola bars
- Raw carrots, apples (unless cut very small)
- Jawbreakers
- Ice (never chew it!)
Sticky & Chewy
- Gum and taffy
- Caramel, licorice, chewy candies
- Bagels and hard rolls
Biting into Whole Foods
- Corn on the cob (cut it off instead)
- Whole apples or pears (slice them thin)
- Tough meats (cut into small bites)
It’s particularly important to avoid potentially challenging foods at the beginning of your treatment, when you’re still learning how to live with your orthodontic appliance. The goal is to enjoy the foods you love without damaging your braces or your teeth—or causing unnecessary discomfort. Use common sense, and avoid jawbreakers.
Mealtime Doesn’t Have to Be a Struggle
With a few adjustments, eating with braces becomes second nature. Focus on what you can eat, stay creative in the kitchen, and remember—every bite brings you closer to a healthier smile.
Schedule Your Free Orthodontic Consultation
Receive a complimentary orthodontic exam and learn if Clarity Advanced Clear Braces are right for you or your child.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I eat pizza with braces?
Yes, but skip the crust if it’s crunchy. Soft, cheesy pizza is a better bet.
Do I have to give up candy completely?
You can still enjoy soft treats in moderation, but skip anything sticky or chewy.
What about fast food?
Stick to soft items like chicken nuggets (no crispy coating), mashed potatoes, or burritos. Cut burgers into pieces instead of biting into them.
Will I always need to avoid crunchy foods?
Only while you have braces. Once they’re off, you can enjoy your old favorites again!
