When most people think of cavities, candy and soda usually come to mind first. And while these items are major culprits, they are far from the only ones! In fact, some everyday foods and drinks that seem harmless or even healthy can quietly increase your risk for tooth decay, especially while you’re undergoing orthodontic treatment. If you or a loved one wears braces or clear aligners, keeping cavities at bay is more important than ever. Here are some surprising cavity-causing foods and some smile-friendly alternatives you can enjoy instead.
Why Cavities Are a Bigger Deal During Orthodontic Treatment
Braces, wires, and attachments create extra nooks and crannies inside the mouth where plaque and food particles love to hide. Similarly, Invisalign clear aligners trap bacteria against the teeth for longer periods of time. When bacteria feed on leftover sugar and starches, they produce acids that weaken enamel and lead to cavities.
If you’re unfortunate enough to get a cavity during orthodontic treatment, it might slow down your progress—or worse, it might cause permanent damage that requires a filling or another restoration before your orthodontic care can continue. All in all, it’s best to keep your smile as healthy as possible during this process, and your diet plays a big part in this.
Surprising Foods & Drinks That Cause Cavities
You might be shocked to see some of these items on the list, but the truth is, they can contribute to cavities whether you believe it or not:
- Starchy snacks like saltine crackers, chips, and pretzels
- Dried fruits like raisins, cranberries, and mangoes
- Flavored yogurts, especially with sugary add-ins
- Citrus fruits like oranges, lemons, and grapefruits
- Sports and energy drinks that are loaded with sugars
- Pasta sauces, which can be both sugary and acidic
- Pickles, due to their vinegar and high acidity
- Alcoholic drinks like beers, ciders, and wine coolers
Smile-Friendly & Orthodontic-Friendly Alternatives
The good news is that you don’t have to give up snacking altogether while you’re straightening your smile! Consider these substitutes:
- Soft cheese or string cheese
- Plain Greek yogurt
- Soft fruits like bananas, cantaloupe, or watermelon
- Scrambled eggs
- Mashed potatoes
- Smooth nut butters
- Water and milk in favor of sodas, sports drinks, coffees, and teas
Orthodontic treatment is an exciting step toward a confident smile, but being mindful of cavity-causing foods is important before, during, and after. That way, once your braces come off, your pearly whites are as healthy as they are bright.
About Simply Orthodontics
Our team here at Simply Orthodontics has proudly served patients and families in Dayville and the nearby CT communities for several years. We offer a wide range of orthodontic services for patients of all ages, including traditional braces, clear/ceramic braces, Invisalign, and beyond. If you have any questions about the blog or you’re ready to schedule an appointment for yourself or your child, please call or visit us online for more information or assistance. Telephone: (860) 590-8497.
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