Dr. Zahra Ebrahimi Nik — Orthodontist, Niavaran Tehran

Proper Diet During Orthodontics | What Foods to Eat and What to Avoid?

Dr. Zahra Ebrahimi Nik — 2025-10-26 — 8 minutes

If you've just started orthodontic treatment, you've probably noticed that eating some foods is no longer as easy as before. Braces and wires can be easily damaged or food particles can get stuck between them. In this article, we'll tell you which foods are suitable for orthodontic teeth and which ones you should avoid.

Introduction

If you've just started orthodontic treatment, you've probably noticed that eating some foods is no longer as easy as before. Braces and wires can be easily damaged or food particles can get stuck between them.

In this article, we'll tell you which foods are suitable for orthodontic teeth and which ones you should avoid.

Section 1: Allowed and Beneficial Foods in Orthodontics

During orthodontics, you should opt for soft, simple, and non-sticky foods to avoid damaging braces:

  • Mashed potatoes, soft rice, cooked pasta
  • Soups and soft dishes like lentils or chicken stew
  • Cooked and mashed vegetables (like cooked carrots or squash)
  • Soft fruits like bananas, cantaloupe, or grated apples
  • Dairy products: yogurt, milk, soft cheese
  • Cooked eggs or scrambled eggs

Tip: After each meal, always rinse your mouth with water and brush as soon as possible.

Section 2: Forbidden Foods in Orthodontics

Some foods may cause brackets to break, wires to bend, or stick to teeth.

Avoid eating the following:

  • Hard foods like almonds, pistachios, crispy rice, popcorn
  • Sticky foods like caramel, gum, toffee
  • Hard fruits like apples or raw carrots (if you do eat them, cut into very small pieces)
  • Carbonated or sugary drinks (soda, energy drinks)
  • Very hot or very cold foods that cause sensitivity

Section 3: Nutrition in the First Days After Installation or Adjustment of Wires

In the first few days, the mouth and gums may be slightly painful. During this period:

  • Use liquid and soft foods like soup or porridge
  • Don't use a straw for drinking to avoid pressure on teeth
  • Eat food at moderate temperature (not too hot, not cold)

Section 4: Beneficial and Harmful Drinks

Beneficial

  • Water
  • Milk
  • Natural diluted fruit juice

Harmful

  • Soda
  • Coffee
  • Strong tea
  • Industrial fruit juice

Section 5: What to Do After Eating?

  1. Always rinse your mouth with water after eating.
  2. Remove stuck particles with an interdental brush.
  3. Use fluoride mouthwash at least twice a day.

Summary

Proper nutrition during orthodontics is not just for comfort, but plays an important role in dental health and treatment success.

By following these tips, you'll both prevent bracket breakage and have a healthier and more beautiful final smile.

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