Can You Drink Soda With Braces? (The Impact On Orthodontic Treatment)
Many people enjoy drinking soda on a regular basis, but for those undergoing orthodontic treatment, it can have a significant impact on their treatment outcome. In this article, we’ll discuss the effects of soda on braces, clear aligners and other orthodontic appliances, and provide tips for maintaining oral health during treatment.
The Negative Impact of Soda on Braces
Soda contains high levels of sugar and acid which can erode the enamel on teeth. This erosion can lead to tooth decay and an increased risk of cavities. For those with braces, this can be especially problematic as the brackets and wires can trap food and bacteria making it harder to maintain oral hygiene.
Additionally, soda can also stain and discolor the braces and teeth. The pigments in soda can stain the plastic and metal components of braces, making them appear yellow or brown. This discoloration can be difficult to remove, even after braces are removed.
Soda’s Effect on Other Orthodontic Appliances
Soda can also have a negative impact on other orthodontic appliances such as clear aligners and retainers. The sugar and acid in soda can damage the plastic of these appliances, causing them to warp or become less effective. Clear aligners and retainers can also become stained, appearing cloudy or yellow in color.
Tips for Maintaining Oral Health During Treatment
To maintain the health of teeth and gums during orthodontic treatment, it’s important to limit consumption of soda and other sugary beverages. Drinking water or sugar-free alternatives is a great way to do this.
In addition, it’s important to maintain good oral hygiene habits such as brushing and flossing regularly to remove plaque and food particles from braces and appliances. Also, it’s important to see an orthodontist and dentist regularly for check-ups and cleanings.
Good Drinks with Braces | Bad Drinks with Braces |
---|---|
Water | Sweet Tea (unless artificially sweetened) |
Milk | Lemonade |
Juice (if diluted) | Juices |
Herbal Teas | Gatorade and Powerade |
Protein Shakes | Sugar-sweetened energy drinks |
Clear soups | Soda |
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Protect your braces and teeth with these tips
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Sugary drinks are particularly harmful to your oral health, so limit your consumption of soda and other sugary drinks.
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Maintain good oral hygiene by brushing and flossing regularly: Brushing and flossing regularly can help remove plaque and bacteria, which in turn can help prevent tooth decay.
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Protect your teeth and braces with a mouthguard: Mouthguards prevent damage to teeth and braces, as well as injuries to the mouth and jaw.
Ensure your braces are working properly by visiting your orthodontist regularly. You can also identify any problems early by visiting your orthodontist regularly.
Conclusion
Soda can have a negative impact on orthodontic treatment, causing tooth decay, discoloration, and damage to braces and other appliances. To minimize these effects, it’s important to limit consumption of soda and other sugary beverages and maintain good oral hygiene habits.
Can You Drink Soda With Braces? (The Impact On Orthodontic Treatment)

Perry heads up a dynamic marketing team that has help the leading orthodontic practices in the USA 10X their business for over a decade. He’s a tea connoisseur, avid reader, traveling and grower of exotic fruits in his permaculture food forest.
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