Are there foods I cannot eat while I have braces?
Yes. You should not eat the following types of foods when you have braces:
Hard foods (nuts, chips, hard candy, pizza crust)
Popcorn (due to the kernels)
Sticky foods (caramel, taffy, gum)
Ice
Whole fruits such as biting into a whole apple
No hard sticky foods
Read more about Foods to Avoid When You Have Braces

Can I drink sodas or sweet beverages with braces?
Try to stay away from these types of beverages as much as possible. Here is why:  Sodas and sweet beverages contain sugar. When certain types of bacteria living on your tooth eat these sugars, acids are created as a byproduct. These acids eat away at the enamel (outer surface) of your tooth and can cause decalcification or cavities. Diet sodas are still harmful because they are usually quite acidic and can still cause damage to the enamel.

How often should I brush my teeth while in braces?
Brush at least five times a day: Once in the morning, once before going to bed, and once after every meal. Don’t forget to floss at least once a day.  Read about brushing and flossing your teeth with braces or see our braces videos.

What happens to my teeth if I don’t brush or floss well?
If you do not brush or floss your teeth well, you can develop cavities, decalcification (discolored spots), bad breath, and/or gum disease. 

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Dr. Yang is a Preferred Invisalign Provider and Board Certified Orthodontist practicing in Redwood City, CA. Read more about Dr. Yang or visit his orthodontic practice online at www.OrthodontistRWC.com.