Summer is just around the corner and that means picnics, barbecues, and lots of outdoor fun and snacks. But for our patients with braces, the question always comes up, “What foods am I allowed to eat with braces?” So, we’ve decided to put together a list of our top 10 best and worst foods to eat with braces.
10 Excellent Food Options for Patients with Braces
When you have braces, it's important to choose foods that are easy to chew, won't damage your braces, and won't get stuck in them. Here are ten foods that are generally considered to be good options for people with braces:
Soft fruits: Opt for softer fruits like bananas, berries, and melons that don't require excessive biting or chewing.
Cooked vegetables: Steamed or boiled vegetables like carrots, peas, and broccoli are easier to chew and won't put too much strain on your braces.
Soft grains: Foods like oatmeal, quinoa, and soft rice are gentle on your braces and can be easily eaten.
Soft meats: Tender meats like chicken, turkey, and fish are good sources of protein and can be easily cut into small, bite-sized pieces.
Dairy products: Soft cheeses, yogurt, and milk-based drinks are excellent options that provide essential nutrients without putting strain on your braces.
Soft bread and pastas: Opt for softer bread and pasta varieties like white bread, tortillas, and soft-cooked pasta that are easier to chew.
Eggs: Cooked eggs in various forms such as scrambled, boiled, or poached are protein-rich options that are typically easy to eat.
Smoothies: Blended fruit smoothies or protein shakes are not only delicious but also a great way to consume nutrients without requiring much chewing.
Soups: Warm and nourishing soups, such as tomato soup, chicken noodle soup, or vegetable soups, are easy to consume and can be packed with nutrients.
Soft desserts: Enjoy treats like ice cream, pudding, gelatin, and soft cakes or muffins as long as they don't contain hard or sticky components.
Additionally, it's crucial to maintain good oral hygiene and follow Dr. Bloom’s instructions for caring for your braces.
10 Foods to Avoid When You Have Braces
It's also important to avoid certain foods that can cause damage to your braces or get stuck in them. Here are ten foods that are generally considered to be problematic for people with braces:
Hard candies: Hard candies can break or dislodge brackets or wires, and they often require excessive biting or chewing, which can be harmful to your braces.
Popcorn: Popcorn kernels can easily get lodged in your braces, and the hulls can cause irritation or get stuck between your teeth and gums.
Nuts: Whole nuts or large chunks can put excessive pressure on your braces and may cause damage. It's best to avoid them or consume them in finely ground form.
Sticky or chewy candies: Taffy, caramels, gummies, and other sticky or chewy candies can stick to your braces and be difficult to remove, potentially causing damage.
Hard or crunchy snacks: Foods like chips, pretzels, and hard cookies can exert excessive pressure on your braces and may lead to broken brackets or wires.
Hard fruits and vegetables: Crunchy fruits and vegetables, such as apples, raw carrots, and corn on the cob, can put strain on your braces and should be cut into small, manageable pieces before eating.
Tough meats: Tough or chewy cuts of meat, like steak or jerky, can be difficult to chew and may potentially damage your braces. Opt for softer meat options instead.
Sticky spreads: Avoid sticky spreads like caramel or gooey fudge, as they can get stuck in your braces and be challenging to clean.
Hard crusty bread: Hard rolls, baguettes, or crusty bread can be tough to bite into and may damage your braces. Choose softer bread options instead.
Carbonated drinks: Sugary or carbonated beverages can contribute to tooth decay and increase the risk of staining around your braces. It's best to stick to water or unsweetened drinks.
By avoiding these foods, you can help protect your braces and minimize the risk of discomfort or damage. Remember to follow Dr. Bloom’s guidelines and maintain good oral hygiene throughout your orthodontic treatment.
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