A careful orthodontic patient can probably eat almost any food and do no damage to his or her appliance. However, these three types of food may cause trouble, as may some other foods. Use common sense or, if you are in doubt, ask us about some food you enjoy eating.

HARD FOODS may do damage by bending the wire, loosening cement under the bands or breaking the little brackets and tubes which are attached.

STICKY FOODS damage appliances by bending wires and pulling cement loose.

FOODS HIGH IN SUGAR CONTENT you should avoid whenever possible. If you do eat any of them, brush your teeth immediately. If it is not convenient to brush, then always rinse your mouth with clear water after eating very sweet foods such as cake or pie.

Popcorn, nuts, peanut brittle, ice (not even if you are careful), lemons (pure lemon juice can hurt your tooth enamel), corn-on–the-cob, corn chips, crisp tacos, pizza crust (the hard outer edge), taffy and caramels, gummy bears, etc. Bubble gum is a big NO.

Maybe

Carrot sticks and apples (only if you cut into small pieces; don't bite), hard French bread (if you take small pieces and are very careful), diet drinks. 

Another vital part of your treatment plan is correct nutrition. Tooth movement is a normal physiological function. The supporting tissues around the teeth respond to gentle pressure produced by braces and wires during tooth movement and rebuild supporting bone following the movement of the tooth to the proper position. A healthy body speeds up this process. And of course, sensible nutrition is necessary to keep your body healthy and strong. Eat well but wisely!

Vitamin C is very important for sustaining your gums healthy during treatment. It plays an important part in the process of healing the bone and collagen surrounding your teeth that are disturbed as teeth are moved.

Best sources of Vitamin C – Orange and orange juice, papaya, cantaloupe, broccoli, brussel sprouts, green peppers, grapefruit and grapefruit juice, strawberries, mango, and cauliflower. Other good sources of vitamin C – asparagus, tomatoes and tomato juice, watermelon, spinach, sauerkraut, honeydew melon, raspberries, and baked potato.