Can you eat chocolate with braces?

Have you just gotten braces and are wondering what you can and can’t eat? Then you’ve probably asked yourself: can you actually eat chocolate with braces? Good news: yes, you can - but there are a few things you’ll need to keep in mind…

# Eating soft chocolate with braces? No problem!

If you're craving a piece of plain dark, milk, or white chocolate - without any hard pieces like nuts or caramel - go ahead and enjoy. Soft chocolate melts in your mouth and won’t pose a risk to your brackets or wires. Just make sure not to bite off big chunks at once. Instead, break your chocolate into smaller pieces and let it melt gently on your tongue.

# Avoid chocolate with hard or sticky fillings

Not all chocolate is safe for your braces. Chocolate with hard nuts, toffee, caramel, or crispy bits is better avoided. These can loosen your brackets or bend your wires. Sticky treats like fudge can also cause damage and easily get stuck between your braces - not great for your teeth and tricky to clean.

# Watch your oral hygiene

Chocolate contains sugar, and sugar is the biggest enemy of a healthy mouth - especially when you wear braces. Food particles can easily get trapped around brackets and wires, increasing the risk of cavities and gum issues. So if you eat chocolate with braces, be sure to brush your teeth afterward and use interdental brushes or floss to remove any remaining bits. Rinsing with water can also help flush away the worst of the residue.

# Our tip: choose the right time of the day

If you do eat chocolate, it’s better to do so with a meal rather than in between. Eating stimulates more saliva production, which naturally helps to clean your teeth. Remember: the less often you snack on sweets or sugary foods, the better for your teeth.

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In short: yes, you can eat chocolate with braces - as long as you choose soft varieties without hard or sticky bits, and take good care of your teeth afterward.

Not sure about certain snacks or sweets? Feel free to ask us for advice at your next check-up - we’re happy to help!

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