Got a sweet tooth? You're not alone! Gummies are a favorite treat for kids and adults alike—but if you or your child is wearing braces, you might be wondering: can you eat gummies with braces?

At Michael Richards Orthodontics in Salt Lake City, we’re here to help you make informed choices that protect your braces and keep your treatment on track. While we believe in balance and enjoying life during orthodontic treatment, some foods—like gummies—can be more harmful than helpful when it comes to your smile.

Let’s break down why gummies and braces don’t mix, and what your better snack options are.

Why Gummies Are a No-Go with Braces

Gummies, fruit snacks, and chewy candies may seem harmless, but they pose several risks to your braces and your teeth. Here’s why we strongly recommend avoiding them during treatment:

1. They’re Sticky—and Stay That Way

Gummy candy is designed to be chewy, which means it sticks easily to your brackets, wires, and teeth. Even with thorough brushing, it’s tough to remove all the residue.

What this means for you — Sticky candy can increase your risk of cavities, especially around brackets where it's harder to clean.

2. They Can Break Brackets or Bend Wires

The chewy texture of gummies puts a lot of pressure on your braces. This can lead to broken brackets, loose bands, or bent wires—all of which can delay your treatment and require extra office visits.

What this means for you — One small snack could lead to extra appointments and added time in braces.

3. They Feed the Wrong Kind of Bacteria

The sugar in gummies sticks around longer when it’s lodged in your braces. That sugary film feeds harmful bacteria, which can lead to plaque buildup, tooth decay, and permanent white spots on your teeth.

What this means for you — Even a few gummy snacks can contribute to long-term damage to your enamel.

But What About “Braces-Friendly” Gummies?

You may see some snacks marketed as “soft” or “orthodontist-approved,” but always read the ingredients and consider the texture.

Even “softer” gummies like fruit chews or natural fruit snacks are still sticky enough to cause issues. If you're not sure about a specific product, feel free to ask us at your next appointment—we’re always happy to help you make the right call.

Safer Sweet Alternatives for Braces-Wearers

The good news? You can still enjoy sweets—you just need to make smarter choices. Here are a few braces-friendly alternatives to satisfy your sweet cravings without harming your orthodontic appliances:

Soft Baked Goods

Muffins, banana bread, and cake (without nuts or sticky icing) are safe in moderation.

Chocolate (No Nuts or Caramel)

Plain milk or dark chocolate that melts in your mouth is generally safe—just brush afterward!

Pudding or Yogurt

Sweet, creamy, and safe for your braces—not to mention great for your gums and digestion.

Applesauce or Soft Fruit Cups

They offer natural sweetness and are gentle on your braces.

Frozen Yogurt or Ice Cream

A cool treat that soothes sore teeth and doesn’t stick to brackets—just skip the gummy toppings!

Tips for Snacking Smart with Braces

Staying on track with your treatment doesn’t mean giving up fun snacks entirely—just a little strategy goes a long way. Here are a few tips:

• Avoid hard, sticky, or chewy textures (gummies, caramel, taffy, and hard candy)
• Brush and floss after snacking, especially after anything sweet
• Use a water flosser to help remove sugary residue from around brackets

When in doubt, choose soft and simple—your teeth and your orthodontist will thank you!

What If You Accidentally Ate Gummies with Braces?

Don’t panic—but do take action. If you accidentally had gummies and nothing seems broken, be sure to brush thoroughly and floss to remove any residue. Keep an eye out for:

• Loose or broken brackets
• Poking wires
• Soreness or sensitivity that doesn’t go away

If anything feels off, give us a call! We’ll get you in for a quick check and make any necessary adjustments to keep your treatment on track.

Trust Your Salt Lake City Orthodontist for Expert Advice

At Michael Richards Orthodontics, we want your treatment to be successful—and that includes helping you make smart food choices. While skipping gummies might not be fun, it’s a small sacrifice for a healthier smile and fewer setbacks along the way.

Our team is always here to answer your questions, provide recommendations, and support you through every stage of your orthodontic journey.

Got Braces Questions? We’ve Got Answers.

If you’re unsure about what you can or can’t eat with braces—or if you’ve had an “oops” moment with a sticky snack—we’re just a call or message away.

Call Michael Richards Orthodontics or schedule your next appointment online today. We’re here to help you protect your smile and stay on track for amazing results.