Foods to Avoid with Lingual Braces

What are Lingual Braces?

Lingual braces are orthodontic appliances that are fitted on the back of your teeth, unlike traditional braces that are placed on the front. These braces work in the same way as traditional braces to align your teeth and correct your bite. However, their position on the back of your teeth makes them virtually invisible, making them a popular choice for adults and teens. For a deeper understanding of the subject, we recommend this external resource packed with more details and insights. Click to learn more on this subject, discover new aspects of the subject discussed.

Why Food Choices Matter?

When you have braces, it is important to be mindful of your food choices. Certain foods can damage the braces or get trapped in the wires and brackets, causing discomfort and increasing your risk of developing tooth decay and gum disease. If you have lingual braces, you need to be even more careful with your food choices because the braces are located inside your mouth, making it harder to detect trapped food particles and brackets that have become loose or damaged.

Foods to Avoid

Here are some foods to avoid when you have lingual braces:

Sticky or chewy foods like caramel, taffy, and chewing gum, as they can stick to the braces and wires.

Hard foods like nuts, popcorn, and hard candy, as they can break or dislodge the braces.

Crunchy foods like apples and carrots should be cut into small pieces and chewed carefully.

Sugary foods like candy and soda should be avoided, as sugar can lead to tooth decay and gum disease.

Spicy or acidic foods like hot sauce and citrus fruits should be avoided, as they can irritate your mouth and cause discomfort.

Starchy foods like bread and chips should be eaten in moderation, as they can get stuck between the braces and wires.

Food Alternatives

When you have lingual braces, you don’t have to give up your favorite foods entirely. Here are some food alternatives that are safe for your braces:

Soft fruits like bananas, grapes, and strawberry are good alternatives to hard fruits like apples and carrots.

Soft and cooked vegetables like green beans and broccoli are easier to chew than raw vegetables.

Lean meats like chicken, fish, and turkey are good sources of protein and are easy to chew.

Dairy products like yogurt, cheese, and milk are good sources of calcium and do not damage the braces.

Breads and pasta should be cooked until soft and eaten in small portions.

Caring for Your Lingual Braces

In addition to being careful with your food choices, it is important to care for your lingual braces properly. Here are some tips on how to keep your braces in good condition:

Brush your teeth at least twice a day and use a fluoride toothpaste to prevent tooth decay.

Floss daily to remove food particles and plaque between your teeth and braces.

Avoid chewing on hard objects like ice and pencils that can damage your braces.

Visit your orthodontist regularly for adjustments and checkups.

Conclusion

Foods to avoid with lingual braces are similar to traditional braces, but their location on the back of your teeth requires extra care and attention when eating. Remember to choose soft and easy-to-chew foods, cut your food into small pieces, and avoid sticky, hard, and sugary foods. By following these guidelines, you can keep your lingual braces in good condition and achieve a beautiful and healthy smile. Wish to learn more about the topic discussed in this article? dentista firenze, packed with extra and worthwhile details to enhance your study.

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