Adjusting to your new braces is a key step in your teeth straightening journey. While the results of your orthodontic treatment will be well worth it, we know there’s a learning curve—especially when it comes to your daily meals. To ensure your treatment stays on track and you remain as comfortable as possible, we’ve created a simple guide to the best foods to eat and those to avoid.
The Best Foods to Eat with Braces (and What to Avoid!)
The Best Foods to Eat with Braces (and What to Avoid!)
Brace-Friendly Foods for a Happy Smile
After getting your braces on, we recommend sticking to soft foods. Think smoothies, yogurts, soups, scrambled eggs, mashed potatoes, and soft fruits like bananas. These options require minimal chewing, which is perfect for when your teeth are feeling a bit tender after an appointment. They ensure you stay nourished without putting stress on your new hardware.
Smart Swaps for Your Favorite Snacks
You don’t have to give up snacking, just make smarter choices. Swap out hard pretzels or crunchy chips for softer alternatives like cheese puffs, hulless popcorn, or soft-baked cookies. Instead of biting into a whole apple, cut it into thin slices. These simple adjustments help satisfy cravings without risking damage to your orthodontic appliance.
Foods to Avoid to Protect Your Braces
To prevent broken brackets or bent wires, it's crucial to avoid certain foods. Stay away from anything hard like nuts and ice, sticky like caramel or gummy candies, and tough to bite like beef jerky or hard rolls. These foods can easily damage your braces, potentially leading to discomfort and extending your overall treatment time.
Pro Tips for Eating with Braces
Beyond choosing the right foods, a few simple habits can make eating easier. Always cut your food into small, manageable pieces rather than biting directly into it. Try to chew with your back teeth, and be sure to brush or at least rinse your mouth with water after meals to dislodge any trapped food particles.
Making mindful food choices is one of the most important aspects of your braces care. By sticking to this advice, you protect your investment and help ensure your orthodontic treatment proceeds smoothly and on schedule. The team at John S. Walker D.M.D. is always here to support you. If you ever have questions or concerns about your braces, please don’t hesitate to contact us.