Who doesn’t love a sweet treat every now and then? But if you’re wearing braces, some of your favorite candies and snacks could pose a real risk to your orthodontic treatment. Damaged brackets, broken wires, or tooth decay from sticky treats can set back your progress—something no one wants!
At Beecroft Orthodontics, we care about helping you protect your investment while still enjoying life. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the top candies and treats to avoid with braces and share tips to keep your smile on track.
Why Certain Treats Are a No-Go for Braces
Braces are strong, but they’re not invincible. Sticky, hard, or sugary snacks can:
Break Brackets or Wires: Hard candies or foods can crack or damage braces.
Cause Tooth Decay: Sticky treats trap sugar around brackets, increasing plaque buildup.
Delay Your Treatment: Repairs take time and can extend your treatment timeline.
Top Candies and Treats to Avoid with Braces
1. Sticky Candies (Caramel, Taffy, Gummies)
Sticky candies like caramel, taffy, and gummy bears are some of the biggest culprits when it comes to damaging braces. These treats cling to brackets and wires, making them difficult to clean off and increasing the risk of tooth decay.
2. Hard Candies and Lollipops
Whether you’re sucking on a lollipop or crunching a jawbreaker, hard candies can break brackets or bend wires.
3. Chewy or Crunchy Snacks (Popcorn, Nuts, Granola Bars)
Popcorn kernels are notorious for getting stuck in braces, which can lead to irritation or even damage. Similarly, crunchy snacks like nuts or hard granola bars can break wires or brackets.
Concerned about caring for your braces? Schedule a consultation with Beecroft Orthodontics to keep your treatment on track!
4. Chewing Gum
Chewing gum—especially the sticky, sugary kind—can wrap around wires, pull on brackets, and leave behind residue that’s tough to clean.
5. Sour Candies
Sour candies might seem harmless, but they’re often both sticky and acidic. The acid weakens tooth enamel, making your teeth more vulnerable to cavities, especially around your braces.
What Can You Enjoy Instead?
The good news? You don’t have to give up all treats while wearing braces! Here are a few braces-safe alternatives:
Soft Fruits: Bananas, grapes, and berries.
Smoothies: A delicious, braces-friendly option.
Dark Chocolate: In moderation, dark chocolate melts quickly and doesn’t stick to braces.
Frozen Yogurt: A creamy, satisfying snack that’s easy on your braces.
Tips for Keeping Your Braces Clean
Brush after meals, especially if you indulge in sugary snacks.
Floss carefully to remove any stuck food particles.
Use an orthodontic toothbrush or water flosser for a deeper clean.
Avoiding sticky, hard, or sugary treats might be tough, but it’s well worth it to protect your braces and maintain a healthy smile. By following these simple tips and choosing braces-friendly snacks, you’ll keep your orthodontic treatment on track while preventing unnecessary repairs.
At Beecroft Orthodontics, we’re here to help you every step of the way. If you have questions or need personalized advice, we’re just a call away!
Ready for your best smile yet? Schedule a consultation with Beecroft Orthodontics today and let’s make it happen!