What You Can Eat With Braces and What You Should Avoid
Are you or a loved one planning to get braces in the near future? It can be overwhelming at first, determining which foods are safe to eat with braces and which foods should be avoided. Unfortunately, some of your favorite foods may be on the “do not eat” list, and for the safety of your braces and your treatment plan, we recommend holding off on eating those foods while you are wearing your braces. There are also foods that we suggest having on hand when you get your braces for the first time or the first few days after an adjustment when your teeth and gums may be a little tender.
Suggested Foods to Eat Immediately After Getting Braces
When getting braces on your teeth for the first time there will be a few days of adjustment period. Your teeth and gums may be tender and uncomfortable while your mouth adjusts to the new hardware on your teeth. We suggest a soft diet consisting of foods such as:
- Scrambled eggs
- Oatmeal
- Pasta
- Soft fruits and vegetables
- Macaroni and cheese
- Soups
- Mashed potatoes
Foods to Avoid with Braces
Eating the right foods can help keep your braces, brackets, and wires from breaking and damaging your gums, cheeks, and tongue. Additionally, eating the right foods along with cleaning your teeth properly can help you avoid tooth decay. It is also best to take smaller bites and not overfill your mouth when eating. We recommend avoiding anything that is chewy, sticky, or crunchy. Although it might be difficult not to eat your favorite foods, it can be a reward to enjoy when your braces are removed and you have beautiful, straight teeth. We suggest avoiding foods such as:
- Chewing gum and taffy
- Popcorn and nuts
- Whole apples (cut up before eating)
- Corn on the cob (cut off the cob before eating)
- Pizza crust
- Thick bagels
- Crunchy vegetables such as carrots
- Ice
If you have any additional questions about foods that are safe for braces please call our office located in Kewaskum, WI. We would hate for you to eat something unsafe and cause damage to your braces or mouth. We look forward to serving you and your family soon!
