What Foods Should Kids Avoid With Braces?

Getting braces is a big step in a child’s orthodontic journey, and helping them make the right food choices is key to keeping their treatment on track. Certain snacks and meals can damage brackets and wires or make it harder to maintain oral hygiene, leading to longer treatment times and unnecessary discomfort. 

At Bloom Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics in Fairfax, VA, our team of experienced pediatric and orthodontic specialists provides compassionate, whole-child care, including guidance on making healthy, braces-friendly food choices that support both dental and nutritional well-being.

Sticky, Chewy & Gummy Foods: A Major Red Flag

Sticky and chewy foods can be a major problem for kids with braces. These types of snacks tend to get lodged in the brackets and wires, putting pressure on the appliances and increasing the risk of breakage or tooth decay. 

These foods also make brushing and flossing much more difficult. In turn, this can quickly lead to plaque buildup and gum irritation. Foods to avoid include:

• Gummy bears, fruit snacks, and chewy candy
• Caramel, toffee, and taffy
• Gum (even sugar-free gum, which pulls on brackets and tends to get stuck)
• Molasses-based snacks, such as sticky granola bars

Dr. Merdad, our board-certified pediatric dentist, and Dr. Alkhunaizi, our board-certified orthodontist, both emphasize the importance of a clean, braces-friendly diet for long-term success. We know kids have cravings, and we’re here to help you find enjoyable alternatives that still align with their treatment goals.

Crunchy Foods That Can Break Brackets

While a crisp apple or fresh baby carrots might seem like a healthy snack, these hard foods can pose a serious threat to orthodontic appliances. Biting into hard foods directly can loosen or damage brackets and wires, potentially adding weeks to a child’s treatment timeline. Crunchy foods to steer clear of include:

• Whole apples and raw carrots (unless cut into small, thin pieces)
• Popcorn (especially unpopped kernels)
• Hard pretzels and crusty bread
• Ice (chewing ice is a major no-go!)

At Bloom Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics, we work hand-in-hand with parents to educate and empower children to make smart choices. Our inclusive, individualized care ensures that every child, including those with developmental or sensory considerations, receives feeding guidance tailored to their unique needs.

High-Sugar Foods That Harm Oral Health During Braces

Even soft, easy-to-chew foods can be harmful if they’re overloaded with sugar. When sugar lingers in hard-to-reach places around brackets and wires, it creates the ideal environment for cavities and enamel damage. Limit these sugary foods:

• Soda, fruit juices, and sports drinks
• Cookies, cake, and pastries
• Sugary breakfast cereals
• Ice cream or flavored yogurt with added sugar or candy toppings

Our holistic approach goes beyond orthodontics. We care about your child’s whole health! From nutrition habits to developmental needs, our Fairfax team supports families throughout their entire care journey with warmth, education, and empathy.

Better Braces-Safe Alternatives for Kids

The good news is that kids don’t have to feel restricted while wearing braces. There are plenty of delicious and nutritious options that keep smiles healthy and appliances safe. Some safe, satisfying choices to add into your meal planning routine include:

• Soft fruits like bananas, berries, and applesauce
• Plain yogurt, smoothies, and oatmeal
• Cooked vegetables, scrambled eggs, and pasta
• Cheese cubes, soft tortillas, and tender meats

As part of our in-house membership offering preventive care services in an accessible way, we also frequently check in with families to ensure their child’s diet is supporting successful treatment and optimal oral health.

Schedule a Braces Check-In in Fairfax

Whether your child is just beginning orthodontic treatment or adjusting to life with braces, our team at Bloom Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics is here to guide you every step of the way. Our caring specialists offer inclusive, expert-led orthodontic care combined with a nurturing and individualized approach. Call us today at (571) 512-7788 to request an appointment and keep your child’s smile on the right track.