I have braces, they're clear so you pretty much don't notice them.
I've never had any real pain, a little soreness after they tighten them but it's nothing that I worry about.
As for what foods to eat..well, most of the foods that you're not supposed to eat aren't very healthy anyway, so personally I don't have a huge problem. Things like tofee, caramel, corn chips,ice cubes, gum....I don't eat anyway
