Getting braces is a big step toward a perfect smile, but it also means making some changes to your diet. During your orthodontic treatment, it’s essential to pay attention to the foods you eat. Some foods can make your treatment go smoothly, while others can cause discomfort or even damage your braces. In this guide, we’ll cover the best foods to eat with braces and the ones you should avoid to keep your treatment on track.
Why Food Choices Matter
Braces may be strong, but they can still get damaged by the wrong foods. Hard, sticky, or crunchy foods can bend wires, break brackets, or cause discomfort. Plus, food particles can get stuck in your braces, making it harder to maintain good oral hygiene. Keeping your braces and your teeth clean is essential for treatment. That’s why making smart food choices is so important.
Foods to Enjoy
Now for the good news – there are plenty of delicious foods you can enjoy throughout your treatment.
Soft Fruits
Soft fruits are a great option when you’re wearing braces. Think bananas, applesauce, and berries. These fruits are easy to chew and won’t damage your braces. Just be sure to cut fruits like apples and pears into smaller pieces if you prefer them raw, so you don’t put too much pressure on your brackets.
Cooked Vegetables
Cooked vegetables are easy to chew and packed with nutrients. Steamed broccoli, soft carrots, zucchini, and spinach are all great choices. They’re gentle on braces and a perfect addition to any meal.
Tender Proteins
It’s best to stick to tender, easy-to-chew proteins. Soft-cooked chicken, ground meats, tofu, scrambled eggs, and fish are all braces-friendly options. They’re gentle on your teeth and give your body the protein it needs to heal and repair.
Dairy Products
Dairy products like soft cheeses, yogurt, and milk are not only braces-friendly, but they also help keep your teeth healthy. The calcium and protein in these foods promote strong teeth and bones.
Grains and Starches
Soft grains and starches are easy to eat with braces. Think pasta, rice, mashed potatoes, and oatmeal. These foods won’t put any strain on your braces and are comforting and filling. Just make sure to avoid things like crunchy cereal or hard bread that can damage your brackets.
Foods to Avoid
While there are many foods you can enjoy with braces, some should be avoided at all costs to prevent damage and discomfort.
Hard, Crunchy Foods
Nuts, popcorn, hard candy, and ice are all examples of foods you should avoid. These can break brackets, bend wires, or even cause your braces to come loose. Stick to softer alternatives like baked chips or soft granola to satisfy your snack cravings.
Sticky Foods
Chewing gum, caramel, toffee, and taffy might taste great, but they can cause serious damage to your braces. These sticky treats can get stuck in your braces, making it hard to clean them and leading to plaque buildup. They also have a habit of pulling at wires and brackets, which could cause damage.
Tough Meats
Steak, ribs, and other tough cuts of meat can be a challenge. They’re hard to chew and may put too much pressure on your braces, causing discomfort. You can opt for ground meat, soft chicken, or fish instead.
Chewy Foods
Bagels, licorice, and thick pizza crusts are chewy foods that can be problematic. They can pull at your braces and possibly break them. Instead of these, try soft sandwiches or wraps, and be cautious of chewy snacks.
Hard Fruits
While fruits are healthy, some can be too hard to eat. Apples, pears, and other firm fruits should be avoided unless you cut them into small pieces. Biting into them directly could damage your braces and make eating uncomfortable.
Tips for Eating with Braces
- Cut Food Into Smaller Pieces: Breaking food into smaller, bite-sized portions reduces the strain on your braces and makes chewing easier.
- Chew Carefully: Be mindful of how you chew. Focus on chewing with your back teeth to avoid putting pressure on your brackets.
- Practice Good Oral Hygiene: Brushing and flossing after meals is essential to prevent food from getting stuck in your braces and causing plaque buildup.
Helpful Snacks
Snack time doesn’t have to be boring. There are plenty of soft foods and nutritious options to choose from:
- Smoothies: A great way to pack in fruits and veggies without worrying about chewing.
- Soft Granola Bars: Make sure they’re soft and not too crunchy.
- Applesauce: A delicious and easy snack option.
- Yogurt Parfaits: Layer yogurt with soft fruits or granola for a tasty treat.
Also, don’t forget about hydration! Water is your best friend, so try to drink plenty of it throughout the day.
What to Do If You Accidentally Eat Something You Shouldn’t
It happens – sometimes you forget to avoid certain foods and end up eating something that could damage your braces. If this happens, check for any damage. If you notice a loose wire or bracket, call your orthodontist for advice. If it’s just a minor inconvenience, you may be able to continue with your treatment until your next visit.
Smart Eating with Braces
Being mindful of what you eat during your orthodontic treatment is crucial for a smooth and successful experience. Stick to foods like soft fruits, tender proteins, and cooked veggies, and avoid hard, sticky, or chewy foods that can damage your braces. And don’t forget – good oral hygiene is needed to keep your braces and teeth in top shape. By making smart food choices and taking care of your braces, you’ll be one step closer to that beautiful smile.
Need more personalized advice on food? Don’t hesitate to reach out.