What can't you do with braces?
Jessica Wood
Updated on January 09, 2026
What to keep avoiding while you have braces
- popcorn.
- nuts.
- ice.
- chewing gum.
- hard candy.
- chewy candy.
- pizza crust.
- bagels and other hard rolls.
What to avoid while on braces?
Foods to avoid with your braces are:
- Nuts.
- Potato chips.
- Popcorn.
- Crunchy veggies.
- Hard candies (such as jolly ranchers or lollipops)
- Gum (Sugar-free gum is okay)
- Sticky candies (like laffy-taffy or gummy bears)
- Corn on the cob.
Do and don'ts for braces?
The Do's and Don'ts of Caring for Your Braces
- DO brush your teeth carefully after every meal. ...
- DON'T eat foods that can damage your braces. ...
- DO floss daily. ...
- DON'T bite your nails or chew on pencils. ...
- DO protect your teeth if you play sports. ...
- DON'T miss your orthodontic appointments.
What are the rules for braces?
Owner's Guide to Braces
- Rule #1: Keep the braces on your teeth. ...
- Rule #2: Please avoid these HARD foods. ...
- Rule #3: Do not chew gum! ...
- Rule #4: Do not use your front teeth to bite into anything! ...
- Rule #5: No food for three hours after application. ...
- Rule #6: Stay on a soft diet for three days after application.