Foods You Can Eat with Braces
Let’s look at what food options you can enjoy with braces:
- Grains: Soft breads, rice, pasta, and oatmeal are good options. Avoid breads with nuts or hard crusts.
- Dairy: Soft cheeses, yogurt, milk, and puddings are all braces-friendly.
- Proteins: Try soft-cooked chicken, beef, fish, tofu, and eggs for easy-to-chew protein.
- Fruits and Vegetables: Choose soft fruits like bananas and avocados. Boil or cook harder fruits and vegetables to make them easier to chew.
- Soups and Stews: These hearty meals are comforting and easy to eat.
- Desserts: Moist cakes, smoothies, and ice cream (without nuts) are perfect for those with braces.
- Other Options: Mashed potatoes, cooked carrots, and scrambled eggs are also great choices.
Foods You Cannot Eat with Braces
Here are some food items you should avoid with braces:
- Hard or Crunchy Foods: Avoid nuts, popcorn, raw carrots, apples, and hard candies, as they can damage your braces.
- Sticky Foods: Avoid caramel, taffy, and chewy candies that can get stuck in your braces and break them.
- Tough Meats: Foods like beef jerky or tough, hard-cooked meats should be avoided as they can be difficult to chew.
- Hard Breads: Pizza crusts, hard rolls, and crusty bread can be too tough and may harm your braces.
- Chewing Gum: Gum can stick to your braces and is difficult to remove.
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How To Avoid Damage To Your Braces
Starting your journey with braces can be exciting, but it comes with some changes, especially when it comes to food. Here are some simple tips to make eating with braces easier and more comfortable:
- Start Small: Cut your food into small pieces to avoid using your front teeth, which might be sensitive at first.
- Chew Gently: Take your time and chew slowly to avoid damaging your braces or wires.
- Rinse After Meals: After eating, rinse your mouth with water to remove food stuck in your braces and avoid plaque buildup.
- Carry the Right Tools: Keep a travel toothbrush or water flosser with you to clean your braces after meals.
- Follow Your Orthodontist’s Advice: Listen to your orthodontist for specific guidelines on food and care. Their advice will help keep your braces in good condition.
Overall Insight
Wearing braces does not necessarily mean you have to restrict yourself from eating everything. Simple modifications and informed food choices like soft, easy-to-chew items can avoid damage or sensitivity. On the contrary, avoiding hard, crunchy, and chewy items is ideal.
If you have more questions, don’t hesitate to reach out to dentists at Richmond Dental Care at (832) 612-2831.
