What Foods to Avoid With Braces (and Why It Matters)

Starting braces is exciting — it’s the beginning of a smile transformation you’ll enjoy for years. But with braces comes one big adjustment: what you can and can’t eat. The good news? You don’t have to overhaul your entire diet. You just need to avoid certain foods that commonly cause bent wires, loose brackets, or unnecessary discomfort.

At Connolly Orthodontics, keeping your treatment on track is important to us — and a few smart food choices go a long way. Here’s a helpful guide to what you should avoid (and why), plus braces-friendly alternatives you’ll love.

Why Some Foods Aren’t Braces-Friendly

Braces work because wires, brackets, and elastic ties stay in place and apply steady pressure. Foods that are too hard, too sticky, or too chewy can damage this system.

That means:

• More emergency appointments
• Slower treatment progress
• Extra soreness

Avoiding certain foods keeps everything moving smoothly — literally.

Foods to Avoid With Braces

1. Sticky Foods

These cling to brackets and can pull hardware loose.

Avoid:

• Caramel
• Taffy
• Gum
• Gummy candies
• Chewy fruit snacks

Sticky foods also get wedged around brackets, making brushing tougher.

2. Hard Foods

Biting into hard foods can snap brackets or bend wires.

Avoid:

• Nuts
• Hard pretzels
• Crusty bread
• Hard candies
• Ice (chewing ice is a big one!)

Tip: Many hard foods are fine if you cut them into small pieces instead of biting with your front teeth.

3. Chewy Foods

These require forceful biting, which stresses brackets.

Avoid:

• Bagels
• Licorice
• Jerky

Your jaw works overtime with these foods, and so do your brackets.

4. Crunchy Snacks

These break into sharp pieces that wedge under wires.

Avoid:

• Popcorn
• Chips
• Corn nuts
• Granola clusters

Popcorn kernels are one of the most common causes of wire irritation.

5. Foods You Bite Into With Front Teeth

Instead of biting directly, cut these into smaller bites:

Avoid:

• Whole apples
• Corn on the cob
• Ribs
• Crusty sandwiches

You can still enjoy these foods — just eat them differently.

Great Braces-Friendly Alternatives

You don’t have to feel limited! Try:

• Smoothies
• Pasta
• Soft breads
• Yogurt
• Cooked veggies
• Mashed potatoes
• Tender meats
• Soup
• Scrambled eggs

We also have a full guide to braces-friendly restaurants in Matthews, NC, if you’re looking for local meal inspiration.

👉 Best Places to Eat in Matthews, NC With Braces

A Few Additional Tips

✔ Cut food into small pieces
✔ Chew with your back teeth
✔ Avoid biting with your front teeth
✔ Brush after eating whenever possible
✔ Keep orthodontic wax with you

These small habits help prevent irritation and keep your treatment running smoothly.

We’re Here to Help You Succeed With Braces

Choosing the right foods makes a big difference in your comfort and treatment timeline. If you ever have questions about whether something is braces-friendly, just ask — we love helping patients feel confident and supported.

Ready for a straighter, healthier smile? Schedule a free consultation with Connolly Orthodontics today!