Research has it. Almost 94% of households in the United States eat potato chips. Not only that but the US potato chip market is set to see an annual growth of 4.35% from 2024 to 2029.
Chips are a popular snacking choice for Americans. And why shouldn’t they be? They’re the ultimate treat for savory lovers – crispy, flavorful, and crunchy! But what about those who love chips but are undergoing orthodontic treatment for a straighter smile and boosted confidence? Can you eat chips with braces?
Can You Eat Chips with Braces?
Yes, but it all comes down to the type of chips you eat. While chips are not completely off-limits during orthodontic treatment, you need to be careful of the kind you pick because there are several risks associated with picking the wrong ones.
Risks Associated When Eating Chips with Braces
While we are not saying you need to completely give up on chips, here are some challenges associated with picking the wrong kind of chips when you have braces:
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Potential Damage
Crunchy and thick chips are the most common enemies of people with braces. They can put unnecessary pressure on your wires and brackets, leading to loosened wires, broken brackets, and an additional trip to the orthodontist.
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Tooth Decay
Chips that have seasonings like cheese or caramel may stick in between the wires and the brackets. Removing it can be a hassle due to its stickiness. If you don’t, the seasonings will stain your teeth and may even stay there and become a breeding ground for bacteria, leading to tooth decay.
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Plaque Buildup
Sticky and hard chips break into smaller crumbs that get stuck in between the teeth. If not removed properly, they can get trapped and cause plaque to build around the gum line. Plaque buildup may lead to inflamed gums and other gum diseases.
How to Avoid Risks of Eating Chips with Braces
While there is a list of chips you can’t eat with braces, there are some that you can eat to avoid risking damage. Below is a list of chips you can safely enjoy with braces and those you should avoid:
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What chips can you eat with braces
If you are in the mood to snack, pick a packet of chips with a soft texture and a smooth surface. These include veggie straws, baked chips, puffed chips, and Pringles.
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What chips you can’t eat with braces
Hard chips with thick and crunchy ridges are meant to give additional flavor and add sturdiness to the snack. They are too difficult to break, exert unnecessary pressure on the wires, and can lodge in between your braces, causing plaque buildup and tooth decay. Further, the sharp edges in these chips can stick between the brackets and loosen them.
The chips that fall into this category are Doritos, kettle-cooked chips, Cheez-its, tortilla chips, Cheetos, ruffled chips, and rolled chips.
Protect your braces while enjoying your meals. Check out our comprehensive list of foods to eat and avoid here.
Can You Enjoy Homemade Chips with Braces?
Yes, homemade chips are a better choice to snack with braces. It’s easier to control the ingredients and the texture of the chips. Air fry or bake smooth and thin slices of chips and snack guiltlessly! But remember to consume them in moderation to avoid damage and brush and floss your teeth after eating.
Plus they are healthier and cheaper! Such a win-win situation.
When to Start Eating Chips with Braces?
It’s best to stick to a soft and liquid diet for the first few days or till the soreness subsides. Getting braces is a huge change and your mouth will take a while to get used to the pressure. We suggest you control your cravings of indulging in snacking and wait for a few days till the soreness and pain in your mouth dies down. Once it gets better, you may eat chips that are baked, smooth, and soft to avoid discomfort.
Important Tips to Enjoy Snacking with Braces
While getting braces can limit you from enjoying your favorite chips, you don’t have to entirely give up on them. Here’s how to enjoy your favorite snacks with braces:
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Break Small Pieces Before Eating
Break the chips into smaller chunks before chewing. This lessens the pressure on the braces which may lead to damage.
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Pick Soft and Smooth Chips
Chips that do not have ridges are a better option. Homemade and baked chips are your best bet.
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Maintain Oral Hygiene
Brushing and flossing is an absolute necessity and you cannot skip on this step! It will help you get rid of food particles stuck between the brackets or teeth and save you from tooth decay and plaque buildup that causes several other dental issues like gum problems.
Additional Tip: Carry a travel-sized toothbrush and floss to clean up after snacking on chips. -
Consult an Orthodontist
Getting braces is a huge change and there are several adjustments that you need to make to get accommodated with the feeling of the brackets and wires constantly applying pressure on your teeth. In the middle of this, you may have to sacrifice a few of your favorite foods but think of it as a small price to pay for a small amount of time till you get a straighter smile!
Always consult your orthodontist for the best advice to follow for your orthodontic case. They can guide you through this process smoothly. If you live in Fresno, CA, Thurman Orthodontics is your best partner for a straighter smile of confidence. Consult us today!
Concerned About Eating with Braces? Our team is here to help! Schedule an appointment today for expert advice and care. Request an Appointment
FAQs
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Can I eat potato chips with braces?
It’s best to avoid potato chips as they are starchy and sticky. They have a high chance of getting stuck in between the brackets and wires of your braces, harming them in the process.
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Can I eat popcorn with braces?
No, avoid popcorn as the kernels can stick in between the wires and cause damage.
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What to do if I accidentally damage my braces when eating chips?
Immediately consult your orthodontist for the best possible care and solution.
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Do I have any alternatives to chips to enjoy with braces?
Yes, you can instead snack on rice cakes, cheese puffs, or sliced vegetables like carrots and cucumbers.
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Can I eat chips after getting braces?
It’s best to avoid chips or any other hard and crunchy food for the first few days or till the soreness subsides. Your teeth are still adjusting to the pressure and pain, give them some time to heal. Instead, stick with a soft and liquid diet.
Dr. Brian Thurman has spent his entire life enjoying all the beauty that California has to offer. A Fresno native, he still escapes to the ocean or the mountains whenever his busy schedule allows. Driven by his love for natural beauty, Dr. Thurman enjoys creating beautiful smiles and healthy bites that last a lifetime. He is proud to be the only Ivy League trained Orthodontist in the Fresno/Clovis area.