If you've just got your metal braces, congratulations! You're one step closer to achieving a beautiful smile. However, while braces can work wonders for your teeth, they require extra care and attention when it comes to eating. Certain foods can damage or get stuck in the brackets and wires of your braces, leading to discomfort and even requiring emergency appointments with the orthodontist. But don't worry - with some simple tips and tricks, you can still enjoy delicious meals without compromising on your treatment progress. In this blog post, we'll walk you through five things to take care of while eating with metal braces so that you can keep smiling confidently throughout your journey towards straighter teeth.

Avoid hard and sticky foods

Hard and sticky foods are some of the most common culprits for damaging braces. Chewing on these types of food can cause your brackets to break or wires to shift, prolonging your treatment time.

To avoid any mishaps, steer clear of foods like hard candy, popcorn kernels, nuts, ice cubes, and tough meat. Instead, opt for softer alternatives such as cooked vegetables or fruits without seeds.

Sticky foods like caramel and chewing gum should also be avoided as they can get stuck in between the brackets and wires which may result in dental decay. If you have a sweet tooth craving, then choose soft chocolates instead.

Remember that while avoiding certain foods may feel restrictive at times, it is necessary to protect your investment in straightening your teeth with braces so that you won't need additional repair appointments with an orthodontist which will cost more money over time.

By following this simple rule - 'If it's too hard or sticky, don't bite' - you'll minimize any potential damage to your braces whilst still being able to eat a variety of delicious meals!

Be extra careful with chewing gum

One of the most common mistakes people with metal braces make is chewing gum. While chewing gum can be a great way to improve your breath and relieve stress, it can spell disaster for those with metal braces.

The main reason why you need to be extra careful with chewing gum is that it's sticky and can easily get stuck in between wires and brackets. When this happens, removing the gum becomes a tricky task that may require professional help from an orthodontist.

If you must chew gum, opt for sugar-free options as they are less sticky compared to their sugary counterparts. But even then, exercise caution while doing so.

Another alternative is using mints or other fresh-breath alternatives instead of gum altogether. These options won't stick to your braces and will still give you fresh breath without putting your orthodontic devices at risk.

While it's best to avoid chewing gum entirely when wearing metal braces if you must indulge in some oral fixation habit like chewing something - choose wisely!

Cut your food into smaller pieces

When you have metal braces, cutting your food into smaller pieces can be a game-changer. This simple tip can make it easier for you to eat comfortably without damaging your wires or brackets.

Cutting your food into smaller pieces not only helps in avoiding discomfort but also makes chewing more manageable. When you cut your food, the pressure on your teeth and braces reduces significantly. Hence, it reduces the risk of breaking or dislodging any part of the braces.

It's best to use utensils instead of biting directly into hard foods like apples or carrots to avoid putting unnecessary pressure on your braces. Additionally, using a knife to cut up tougher meats like steak can help make them more manageable during meals.

If you're eating out at a restaurant with friends or family, don't hesitate to ask for extra utensils if needed. Cutting up all of your food before starting will save time and prevent awkward conversations about why you're taking so long to finish!

Cutting up food might seem trivial but it is essential when wearing metal braces! It helps reduce discomfort while eating and protects against damages that could lead to costly repairs and longer treatment times.

Be careful with crunchy foods

When you have metal braces, it's important to be cautious with what you eat. One type of food that poses a potential risk is crunchy foods. While they may seem harmless, biting down on hard and crunchy foods can cause damage to the brackets or wires of your braces.

Examples of crunchy foods include nuts, chips, popcorn, and hard candies. When eating these types of snacks or treats, it's important to chew them carefully and avoid biting down directly on them. Instead of crunching into an apple or carrot whole, try cutting them into smaller pieces before consuming.

If you do choose to indulge in a crunchy snack while wearing braces, make sure to rinse your mouth out thoroughly afterward. This will help remove any small particles that may have become stuck between your teeth or around the brackets.

Remember that being careful with what you eat during orthodontic treatment is essential for ensuring successful results and avoiding costly repairs. So next time you reach for a bag of chips or bowl of popcorn – think twice!

Avoid biting your nails and lips

Taking care of your metal braces while eating is crucial to ensure a successful orthodontic treatment. Remember that certain foods can damage the brackets and wires, which may lead to discomfort and prolong the duration of your treatment.

The tips mentioned in this article are simple but effective ways to avoid any issues with your braces while enjoying your meals. Avoid hard and sticky foods, be extra careful with chewing gum, cut food into smaller pieces, be cautious with crunchy foods, and avoid biting your nails and lips.

By following these guidelines, you'll have an easier time adjusting to life with metal braces. It's also important that you keep up good oral hygiene habits by brushing regularly or using an interdental brush to remove plaque buildup around the brackets.

If you experience any problems or discomfort during your orthodontic treatment despite taking preventive measures when eating, don't hesitate to contact your orthodontist for further guidance. With proper care and attention throughout the course of treatment, you'll soon have a beautiful smile that will last a lifetime!

To learn more, visit Omana Orthodontics at 77 S 700 E Suite #250, SLC, UT 84102, or call (801) 359-4151.