We are often asked if people who wear braces can still eat and drink most things. The answer is yes – as long as you are careful, you can still enjoy most foods and drinks. There are, however, a small number of things that we recommend you avoid eating or drinking while you are having orthodontic treatment, for the health of your teeth and to minimise the chance of damaging brackets or wires.
Eating Recommendations For Orthodontic Patients

Avoid Hard Foods
- Popcorn
- Corn chips
- Nuts
- Hard lollies
- Pizza Crust
- Corn-on-the-cob
- Hard biscuits
Hard foods will break brackets, damage wires and loosen the cement under the brackets and bands.

Avoid Sticky Foods
- Liquorice
- Caramel
- Chewing gum
- Dried fruit
- Chewy lollies
- Sticky muesli bars
Sticky foods can damage orthodontic appliances by bending wires and pulling brackets or bands loose.

Brush And Rinse After Sweets
- Lollies
- Ice cream
- Cakes and cupcakes
- Soft drinks
- Fruit juice
- Sugary cereals
- Milkshakes
If you eat foods which are high in sugar, always brush your teeth afterwards. If you are unable to brush, rinse your mouth thoroughly with water.

Eat With Care Foods
- Carrot sticks – cut into curls
- Apples – slice into thin wedges
- Hard breads – take small bites and chew carefully
- Meats – take small bites and chew carefully
- Crackers – take small bites and chew carefully
- Peanut butter – “smooth” only, no crunchy