Foods To Avoid

After your orthodontic appliances are placed you should modify your diet to preserve the integrity of your appliances and reduce the risk of tooth decay and gum disease.

Many types of bacteria naturally occur in your mouth. Sugars in the foods you eat are used by these bacteria to release acid and other products that cause tooth decay and gum disease.

By reducing the amount of sugared foods you eat and adopting good oral hygiene, you will significantly reduce the ability of these bacteria to harm your teeth and gums.

Orthodontic appliances are not meant to stay on your teeth permanently, and are thus susceptible to breakage with excessive chewing pressure. By reducing the amount of hard brittle foods in your diet, you will reduce the instances of broken archwires, loose molar bands and detached orthodontic brackets. Instances where your appliances are broken, loose or detached cause a significant increase in treatment length, and may compromise your final orthodontic result!

Eating a balanced diet is essential for health and longevity, and it is anticipated that our recommendations for healthy eating will remain with you long after your orthodontic treatment is complete.

Foods to Avoid:
  • Hard, brittle foods: ice, pizza crusts, taco chips, peanuts, sunflower seeds, popcorn, crusty breads, pretzels and hard candies.
  • Soft, sticky foods: caramels, toffees, marshmallows, licorice, taffy and chewing gum.
  • Acidic, sugar foods: Cola's, lemons, limes, chocolate, honey and candies.
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Foods to Keep:
  • Softer foods: soups, mash potatoes, yogurts, bananas.
  • "Bone" foods: Milk (Vitamin D and Calcium) and Orange Juice (Vitamin C) - All essential to bone metabolism.
  • Vitamin supplement: a 'One a Day' vitamin supplement is always a good idea.
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Food Preparation:
  • Whole fruits and vegetables should be sliced, grated or cut into small pieces before eating.
  • Remove crusts from hard breads, rolls and pizza.
  • Blended drinks, athletic protein shakes or instant breakfast shakes provide many of the essential nutrients your body requires without the need for excessive chewing.
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IMPORTANT: Individuals on prescribed diets for medical conditions or weight loss programs should consult with their Physician and/or Dietician before adopting our dietary recommendations.

Top 10 Questions

  1. Foods to Avoid
  2. Foods to Keep
  3. Food Preparation

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Calgary, AB T3P 0A3