Dr. Atoosa Nikaeen is experienced with all major types of braces – from traditional metal braces, self-ligating braces, braces behind the teeth (lingual braces), ceramic clear braces and of course Invisalign.
An estimated 45 percent of children need braces to fix any misalignment with their teeth. With braces, it is important to uphold and maintain the equipment for a smoother treatment process. So, it is important to have a regulated diet because people often forget that they have braces as they become accustomed to it.
What are general foods that you should avoid as a traditional brace wearer and why?
Having traditional braces makes it harder to clean the tight and narrow spaces of your teeth. Because of this, it is suggested to limit the amount of sweets and sugary foods you consume as it will be difficult to thoroughly clean your teeth. Foods high in sugar can cause the appearance of plaque on teeth and cause tooth decay. Avoid foods that can stick to the teeth such as gum or chewy candy as they are difficult to completely clean off teeth. Do not try to hard foods as a whole, instead cut them up into bite sized pieces to avoid damage to your brackets. Damage to the wire or brackets can lead to a prolonged treatment time.
Food that is generally safe
Opt for softer substitutes to harder foods when dealing with braces. For breakfast, eat foods such as toast, oatmeal, eggs, and yogurt. For lunch, eat soup or softened vegetables along with meats that are easier to chew. Salads are still alright to consume, but stay clear of any nuts that may be too hard. In general, seafood’s and many types of protein are alright to eat as long as they are cooked to an appropriate softness. Of course, desserts are still allowed, just be sure to brush or at least rinse afterwards. In general, foods that are soft, and easy to chew are okay to be consumed for brace wearers.
How can you maintain your braces and keep them clean?
Food can easily get caught in between the small crevasses between your teeth and the braces, so it is important to brush or at least rinse after every meal to prevent tooth decay. The longer foods are in contact with your teeth, the greater the opportunity for plaque to form and cause tooth decay. Make sure to brush all parts of your teeth and gums, reaching every angle and space. Be sure to floss in between every single tooth to reach the tight spaces. Also, use a toothbrush with a pointy tip that can reach in between the wires and your teeth.
Living and maintaining braces is a difficult task to do, but with the right orthodontist it can become a much simpler task. Contact Los Angeles Orthodontist Dr. Nikaeen today for a free initial consultation and with any questions or concerns you may have.