Popcorn

Hard and crunchy foods are best avoided with braces because they can bend wires, loosen bands, or even knock off brackets. Popcorn is especially problematic as its kernels and hard pieces can easily get stuck between your teeth and braces, making them difficult to clean out. These small bits not only risk damaging your braces but can also lead to plaque buildup and gum irritation. To prevent unnecessary hassle and protect your orthodontic treatment, it’s best to save the popcorn for after your braces come off.

Nuts

Like popcorn, nuts are tough to eat when you have braces. Their hard texture can put excessive pressure on your braces, leading to bent wires or broken brackets. Even small nuts can create issues if they get wedged into the brackets or wires, making cleaning a challenge. To avoid interruptions in your orthodontic progress, skip nuts entirely and opt for softer snacks like yogurt or applesauce.

Gum

Sticky foods like bubble gum or taffy are a nightmare for braces. These chewy treats can become tangled in your braces, sticking to wires and brackets in ways that are almost impossible to clean. Beyond the damage they can cause, sticky substances make maintaining oral hygiene much harder, increasing the risk of tooth decay. Choosing to avoid gum and similar snacks is one of the best ways to keep your braces in top condition.

Candy

Hard candy is another item strongly discouraged when wearing braces. The sugar content is harmful to your teeth, and the hardness of the candy can wreak havoc on your braces. Biting down on hard candy can break brackets, snap wires, or loosen bands, delaying your progress and requiring extra orthodontic visits. Instead of risking damage, stick to softer, braces-friendly sweets like pudding or Jell-O.