At Northwest Austin Family Dentistry, we often have patients that are curious as to what life with braces is like. Are there foods to avoid? Helpful tips? Can I play sports? These are just a few of the questions we get asked, so we’ve decided to cover the basics of what to expect when you get braces.

What to Eat with Braces

Food is a big topic when it comes to braces. Certain foods that are sticky or hard may damage your braces and cause discomfort or pain. Other foods, however, can be easier on braces.

Foods to Avoid:

• Chewy Foods (Soft Candy, Bagels, etc.)
• Crunchy Foods (Popcorn, Potato Chips, etc.)
• Sticky Foods (Gum, Caramel, etc.)
• Hard Foods (Nuts, Hard Candy, etc.)
• Foods You Bite Into (Apples, Corn, etc.)

Foods to Enjoy:

• Dairy (Pudding, Soft Cheese, etc.)
• Breads (Muffins, Pancakes, etc.)
• Grains (Rice, Pasta, etc.)
• Vegetables (Beans, Mashed Potatoes, etc.)
• Fruits (Bananas, Applesauce, etc.)

What if Wires/Elastics Come Loose?

Wires and elastic bands are used to hold your braces together. Sometimes, however, these elastic bands or wires may come loose. Eating certain foods can make this more common, so it is best to avoid them. If you notice an elastic or wire has come loose, contact our Austin dental office right away. If a bracket comes loose, please bring it to the office. We’d be happy to look at your braces and repair anything that needs fixing.

Playing Sports with Braces

Many of our Austin orthodontic patients partake in athletic activities/sports and ask if they will still be able to play. The simple answer is yes. However, we recommend that a custom mouthguard is worn. This will protect both your braces and smile. If you are interested in playing sports during your orthodontic treatment, ask us about our custom mouthguards for sports.