Having braces can make mealtime challenging, but knowing the right braces-friendly foods you can eat with braces can make your orthodontic journey much smoother. Knowing the easy things to eat with braces is key to staying comfortable and keeping your dental health on track during treatment.
No matter how careful you are, excessive chewing of hard foods will eventually cause problems for you and your braces. Knowing what you can and cannot eat at a meal may be helpful when getting braces for the first time.
Understanding Braces-Friendly Eating
Navigating meals with braces requires careful consideration. We have compiled a comprehensive guide to help you choose the kinds of soft food recommended to eat with braces. Our guide will give you the best options to protect your new braces.
Foods to Avoid
Some foods can damage your braces and should be completely avoided:
- Hard food like nuts, ice, and uncut raw vegetables
- Sticky food such as caramel and chewing gum
- Crunchy foods like crispy chips and popcorn
- Hard candies
When in doubt, go for softer foods.
Breakfast: Easy Meals for Braces
When it comes to meals you can eat with braces, breakfast offers plenty of delicious and safe options:
- Scrambled eggs
- Yogurt
- Fluffy pancakes
- Creamy oatmeal
- Soft toast
- Fruit like ripe bananas
- Soft bacon (cut into bite sized pieces)
Lunch: Simple and Comfortable Eating
Finding easy foods to eat with braces during lunch is easier than you might think:
- Hearty stews
- Soft-breaded deli sandwiches
- Mixed salads with finely chopped ingredients
- Pasta dishes
- Soft-cooked vegetables
Pro tip: Always cut solid foods into smaller pieces to make eating more comfortable and protect your braces.
Dinner: Braces-Friendly Foods
Creating delicious dinners with braces is simple:
- Steamed foods like soft vegetables
- Lean proteins
- Rice or quinoa
- Soft fish
- Tender chicken (cut into bite sized pieces)
Comfort Food for Braces Adjustment Days
After getting braces tightened and your mouth feels sore, these softer substitutes can provide comfort:
- Smooth pudding
- Creamy mashed potatoes
- Warm soup
- Cold ice cream
- Cottage cheese
- Soft peas
- Pasta
- Yogurt
- Soft muffins
Oral Health Tips
While enjoying your braces-friendly meals, remember these important care tips:
- Brush and floss after every meal
- Cut food into small, bite sized pieces
- Avoid biting directly into hard foods
- Steer clear of chewy candy
- Eat less sugary foods
- Rinse thoroughly after eating
When to Seek Help
If you notice any damage to your braces after a meal, contact our Plano, TX office immediately. Our team is ready to help you maintain your perfect smile throughout your orthodontic treatment. Schedule a consultation!
Getting braces doesn’t mean sacrificing delicious meals. With these tips and recommendations, you’ll discover countless types of braces friendly food while working towards a beautiful, straight smile!
