If you wear braces, you know that certain foods should be avoided to prevent damaging the braces and prolonging the treatment. One such food is goldfish crackers, a popular snack among both children and adults. In this article, we will explore whether goldfish is safe to eat with braces, and what you need to know before enjoying this crunchy treat.
What Are Goldfish Crackers?
Goldfish crackers are a type of snack cracker shaped like fish. They are made from wheat flour, cheese, salt, and other ingredients, and come in various flavors, such as original, cheddar, pizza, and pretzel. Goldfish crackers are popular among children and often served as a snack at schools, parties, and other events.
Why Goldfish Crackers are Not Recommended for Braces Wearers
If you wear braces, you should avoid foods that are sticky, hard, or crunchy, as they may damage the brackets and wires, cause them to come loose or break, and prolong the treatment. Goldfish crackers fall into the category of crunchy and hard snacks and can pose a risk to your braces.
How Goldfish Crackers Can Damage Braces
When you chew on goldfish crackers, they can create pressure on the braces and wires, causing them to shift or loosen. Moreover, the sharp edges of the crackers can catch on the braces, pulling them off or breaking them. If this happens, you may have to visit your orthodontist for repairs, which can be both inconvenient and costly.
What Happens If You Ignore This Recommendation?
If you ignore the recommendation and eat goldfish crackers with braces, you may experience discomfort, pain, or bleeding from the gums or mouth. You may also prolong the treatment, as your braces may need to be adjusted or replaced more often, which can increase the duration and cost of the treatment.
What Foods Can You Eat Instead of Goldfish Crackers?
If you are looking for snack alternatives that are safe for braces wearers, here are some options:
- Soft fruits, such as bananas, strawberries, and grapes
- Soft cheeses, such as brie, cottage, and cream cheese
- Yogurt, smoothies, and milkshakes
- Boiled or steamed vegetables, such as carrots, broccoli, and sweet potatoes
- Soft bread, such as pita, tortilla, and muffins
How to Clean Your Braces After Eating?
Even if you stick to soft foods, it’s important to maintain good oral hygiene when you wear braces. Here are some tips on how to clean your braces after eating:
- Brush your teeth and braces after each meal or snack with a soft-bristled brush and fluoride toothpaste.
- Rinse your mouth with water or antiseptic mouthwash to remove any food particles or bacteria.
- Floss your teeth and braces using a floss threader or interdental brush to clean the spaces between the brackets and wires.
- Use a water flosser or oral irrigator to remove debris and plaque from hard-to-reach areas.
What to Do If You Damage Your Braces?
If you accidentally damage your braces or experience any discomfort, pain, or bleeding, you should contact your orthodontist as soon as possible. He or she can evaluate the damage, make necessary repairs or adjustments, and give you advice on how to prevent similar incidents in the future.
Common Types of Orthodontic Emergencies and Their Treatment
Here are some common types of orthodontic emergencies and what to do about them:
| Type of Emergency | Cause | Treatment |
|---|---|---|
| Loose band or bracket | The band or bracket may come off due to chewing on hard foods, trauma, or poor adhesive. | Contact your orthodontist and save the bracket or band if possible. Do not try to reattach it yourself. |
| Poking wire | The wire may protrude from the back of the last bracket and irritate the gums or cheeks. | Use a cotton swab or eraser to push the wire back into place, or cover it with orthodontic wax. If the problem persists, see your orthodontist. |
| Ligature tie coming off | The small rubber band around the bracket may come loose or fall off. | Contact your orthodontist if the tie needs to be replaced, or remove it if it is causing discomfort. |
Conclusion
If you wear braces, it’s best to avoid goldfish crackers and other hard, crunchy, or sticky foods that may damage the braces and prolong the treatment. Instead, opt for soft, nutritious, and braces-friendly options that can satisfy your cravings and protect your oral health. If you experience any problems with your braces, contact your orthodontist for assistance.
FAQs
Here are some common questions and answers related to eating goldfish with braces:
- Q: Can you eat goldfish crackers with Invisalign?
- A: Goldfish crackers are not recommended with Invisalign aligners, as they may stain or damage the aligners and affect their fit and function. It’s best to remove the aligners when eating and drinking and clean them before putting them back.
- Q: Can you eat goldfish crackers with retainers?
- A: Retainers are usually removable and can be taken out when eating. However, if you wear fixed retainers, you should avoid hard, crunchy, or sticky foods that may damage or dislodge the retainers.
- Q: How often should you replace your braces?
- A: Braces need to be replaced or adjusted every 4-8 weeks, depending on the type of braces and the progress of the treatment. Your orthodontist will give you specific instructions on how often to schedule your appointments.
References:
- https://www.webmd.com/oral-health/foods-braces
- https://www.colgate.com/en-us/oral-health/cosmetic-dentistry/adult-orthodontics/braces-friendly-foods-to-eat-after-your-adjustment-0314
- https://www.archwired.com/dental-emergency-what-is-it-and-what-should-i-do/