Common Sense is Your Best Policy

Proper eating habits are one key to a successful orthodontic program.  If you haven't done so already, establish a pattern of regular, nutritious meals.  Snacks should be avoided when you're unable to brush soon after eating them.

Avoid soft, sticky foods and candies.  They can loosen or even dislodge your braces.  Some examples are gum (especially bubble gum) and candies such as caramels and taffy.

Be careful with whole fruits and vegetable too.  Cut apples and carrots into very thing slices and chew them carefully.  Slice corn off the cob.

It's best to avoid chips and dip.  If that's too much of a sacrifice, indulge in moderation.  Never suck on lemons, limes or ice.  Also, do not chew on pens or pencil.

 HARD FOODS TO AVOID INCLUDE:

• Hard Candy
• Corn Chips
• Popcorn
• Jerky
• Ice
• Nuts
• Pizza Crust
• Corn on the Cobb
• Jolly Ranchers

 SOFT FOODS TO AVOID INCLUDE:

• Bubble Gum
• Starbursts
• Sugar Daddies
• Tootsie Rolls
• Gummer Bears
• Caramels
• Taffy
• Other chewy candies

Also, avoid drinks that contain sugar, such as carbonated drinks.