Getting braces is a big commitment that can lead to significant changes in your daily routine, including your diet. Eating certain foods can damage your braces or cause discomfort, while others are perfectly fine to eat. In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at the foods you can and can’t eat with braces.
Foods to Avoid with Braces
- Hard Foods: Foods like hard candies, nuts, popcorn, and ice can cause damage to your braces, and potentially prolong your treatment!
- Sticky Foods: Sticky foods like caramel and toffee can get stuck in your braces and be difficult to remove, leading to plaque buildup and possible cavities.
- Tough and Chewy Foods: Foods like bagels, tough meats, and chewy bread can be difficult to bite and chew with braces, potentially damaging the wires and brackets.
- Sugary Foods and Drinks: Foods and drinks high in sugar can contribute to tooth decay, which can be exacerbated by braces. It’s important to maintain a healthy diet and limit sugary treats!
Foods You Can Eat with Braces
- Soft Foods: Soft foods like cooked vegetables, mashed potatoes, and soups are easy to chew and won’t cause damage to your braces.
- Dairy Products: Dairy products like yogurt, cheese, and milk are good sources of calcium and can help strengthen your teeth and bones.
- Soft Fruits: Fruits like bananas, kiwis, and strawberries are soft and easy to eat with braces. It’s best to cut them into small pieces to avoid biting directly into them.
- Whole Grains: Whole grains like brown rice and quinoa are healthy options that are easy to eat with braces. Just be sure to cook them thoroughly to make them easier to chew.
- Water: Water is essential for maintaining good oral health and can help rinse away food particles that get stuck in your braces.
It’s important to be mindful of what you eat when you have braces, as certain foods can cause damage or discomfort. By avoiding hard, sticky, and tough foods, and focusing on soft foods, you can help protect your braces and maintain good oral health! Remember to continue to practice good oral hygiene by brushing and flossing regularly and by visiting Storms and Swiderski Orthodontics for check-ups and adjustments. With a little care and attention, you can enjoy a healthy and maintain a delicious diet while having braces.
