When you or your child first get braces, one of the biggest adjustments is figuring out what to eat. At True Smile Orthodontics, we want your treatment to be as comfortable and successful as possible and that starts with choosing foods that are gentle on your brackets and wires.
Here’s our quick guide to braces-friendly eating that’s both safe and satisfying.
When your teeth are adjusting after an appointment, soft foods can help ease soreness and prevent damage to your braces.
Some of our favorite go-to options include:
- Dairy – soft cheese, pudding, milk-based drinks
- Breads – soft tortillas, pancakes, muffins without nuts
- Grains – pasta, soft cooked rice
- Meat/Poultry – soft cooked chicken, meatballs, lunch meats
- Seafood – tuna, salmon, crab cakes
- Vegetables – mashed potatoes, steamed spinach, beans
- Fruits – apple sauce, bananas, fruit juice
- Treats – ice cream without nuts, milkshakes, Jell-O, soft cake
During treatment, it’s best to avoid foods that are hard, crunchy, sticky, or chewy, as they can damage your orthodontic appliances and slow down your progress.
Some foods you should avoid include:
- Chewy Foods – bagels, licorice
- Crunchy Foods – popcorn, chips, ice
- Sticky Foods – caramel candies, chewing gum
- Hard Foods – nuts, hard candies
- Foods That Require Biting Into – corn on the cob, apples, carrots
Pro tip: Did you know that Invisalign treatment requires less modification of your diet? If you want a straighter, healthier smile but want to have the freedom to eat whatever you want, consider starting your orthodontic treatment with Invisalign!
Eating with braces doesn’t have to be boring! Focus on soft versions of your favorite meals and incorporate plenty of whole foods. At True Smile Orthodontics, we believe everyone deserves a confident, healthy smile, no matter where you are on their dental journey. Our team is dedicated to providing expert, compassionate care tailored to your unique needs, helping you achieve the smile you’ve always wanted.
