When you have braces, the last thing you want to worry about is trouble with your wires and brackets. Unfortunately, certain foods are notoriously hard on orthodontic appliances, which is why you should know what to stay away from. Here are three foods to avoid when you have braces and why. 

Foods That Are Bad for Braces

1. Nuts, Seeds, & Popcorn

When hard grains or seeds are toasted, they develop an especially crunchy texture, which can damage the wires and brackets that compose braces. If popcorn kernels, seeds, or nuts are hard enough, they can even pop off brackets, creating the need for urgent orthodontic care. Additionally, hard foods can cause painful tooth fractures, potentially causing problems like oral abscesses. 

2. Gummy Candy 

Because braces are situated on the surfaces of teeth and contain places where food particles can get stuck, avoid gummy candy. In addition to containing high amounts of added sugar that can exacerbate oral decay, chewy candies can be tough enough to alter wire placement. 

3. Chewy Breads

Many breads are made to have a crisp texture that can be as damaging to brackets as nuts and seeds, along with a chewy interior that can damage dental wires. Additionally, breads are high in simple carbohydrates, which can increase your chances of developing cavities. 

Caring for your teeth when you have braces isn’t always easy, which is why James Julien, DDS, is there to help. As an experienced family dentist in Kenai, AK, Dr. Julien makes dental care easy by accepting all local insurance plans, making sure appointments run on time, and offering personalized treatment to every patient. To learn more about this practice or to set up an appointment, visit them online or call (907) 283-4857 today. You can also like them on Facebook.