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Starting your braces journey is exciting — it’s the first step toward a straighter, healthier smile. But adjusting to life with braces means learning some new food habits to help keep your teeth, braces, and gums in great shape. Eating the right foods and avoiding the wrong ones can make a huge difference in how comfortable and smooth your orthodontic journey is.
Go-to Soft Foods for the First Few Days
Right after you get braces or have adjustments, your mouth may feel a bit tender and softer foods are your best friend. Stock up on foods that are filling, easy to chew, and gentle on your braces. Think oatmeal, yogurt, mashed potatoes, scrambled eggs, and smoothies. Pasta and soft-cooked vegetables are also great options to keep you full without causing discomfort.
These soft foods are a great choice at the start, and they’re also good to fall back on if you experience any soreness or sensitivity after adjustments. Keeping these go-to foods on hand can help you stay comfortable throughout the braces process.
The Crunch Factor: Foods to Avoid
Crunchy foods are among the biggest no-nos with braces because they can snap a bracket, bend a wire, or even get lodged in your braces, leading to discomfort and a surprise trip to the orthodontist. Steer clear of crunchy snacks like popcorn, nuts, hard tacos, and chips, which can easily damage your braces. Instead, try soft alternatives like pita bread or soft, cooked veggies.
If you really miss the crunch, consider a veggie option like soft cucumber slices or steamed carrots. These will give you a bit of crunch but won’t risk damaging your braces or making life with braces tougher than it needs to be.
Say Goodbye to Sticky and Chewy Foods
Sticky foods can be a headache when you have braces, as they can wrap around wires, get stuck between brackets, and be almost impossible to clean out. Avoid treats like caramel, gum, gummy candies, and taffy. They can even pull your braces off if they’re sticky enough!
Instead, try softer, braces-friendly alternatives like applesauce or frozen yogurt if you’re craving something sweet. These alternatives satisfy the craving without putting your braces in jeopardy. Staying mindful of these choices will make maintaining your braces and your orthodontic progress a lot easier.
Embrace the Power of Dairy, Fruits, and Vegetables
Dairy products are a solid go-to during your braces journey because they’re soft, easy to chew, and packed with essential nutrients like calcium that benefit your teeth. Milk, cheese, and yogurt are ideal braces-friendly foods.
Soft fruits and vegetables are also your allies with braces — just remember to slice harder fruits, like apples, and cook firmer veggies, like carrots, to avoid putting extra pressure on your brackets. Bananas, berries, steamed spinach, and mashed avocado are nutrient-rich options that keep your teeth healthy while working around your braces.
Be Smart With Sweets and Beverages
If you have a sweet tooth, you don’t have to give up on treats entirely, but you do need to be mindful about your choices. Opt for softer sweets that won’t get stuck in your braces, such as pudding, chocolate (avoiding the hard and nut-filled kinds), or a piece of cake. Always brush afterward, as sugary foods increase the risk of tooth decay, especially with braces.
When it comes to beverages, steer clear of sugary sodas and juices, which can contribute to plaque buildup around your braces. Water is the best choice, as it hydrates without adding sugar or acidity to your mouth. You can also try drinking milk or flavored water as braces-friendly alternatives to sugary drinks.
Ready to Start Your Braces Journey?
Adjusting to life with braces doesn’t have to be difficult, and Stewart Smiles is here to help make it as smooth as possible. Whether you need guidance on what to eat or tips on keeping your braces clean, our team is here to support you. Schedule your free exam with Stewart Smiles and take the first step toward your best smile today!
