Braces-Friendly Food: What You Can and Can't Eat with Braces

Understanding the Dental Braces Basics

Embrace metalcore with a tasty meal – that’s right, with a few adjustments you too can still feast as you please!

In this culinary exploration, we’ll be your guides through the dos and don’ts of braces-approved delights. From soft to crunchy, we’ve got the lowdown on what’s on the menu and what’s best left out of the shopping trolley.

What Can You Eat with Braces? Let’s Explore Braces Friendly Food!

Brace yourself because there’s a world of tasty treats waiting!

Opt for brace-friendly delights like pasta, mashed potatoes, and soft tacos to keep your mealtime hassle-free. Dive into the joy of biting into crunchy fruits and veggies—just slice them up to save your braces from any breakage or snapping (not fun for any party involved). Sticking to softer foods avoids hurting your teeth which are definitely feeling more sensitive, and crunchy foods can bend the wires, loosen bands, and get rid of brackets completely – here’s to a painless journey.

Remember, with braces, you’re not saying goodbye to good eats, just welcoming a new, tooth-friendly way to savour the flavours.

What Should You Eat With Braces?

1. Soft & Salty

Creamy pasta dishes
Soups and stews
Mashed potatoes
Tender meats like chicken and fish
Soft tofu or scrambled eggs
Bolognese and mashed potatoes

2. Easy Bites & Sips

Yogurt and smoothies
Soft cheeses (think brie and mozzarella)

Bananas and other soft fruits
Steamed or roasted vegetables
Applesauce for a sweet treat

3. Carb Central

Soft bread and rolls
Cooked rice and pasta
Pancakes and waffles for a braces-friendly breakfast

What You Can’t Eat with Braces – The No-No List

There are a few foods you’ll have to temporarily say goodbye to — they’re a bit too much for your braces to handle at the moment. Wouldn’t want anything getting stuck in there, or worse breaking the entire set-up right? Remember, it’s a short break from the crunchy things, but hang in there, the end result will make this all worth it!

1. Sticky and Chewy Treats:

Chewy candies
Sticky toffees
Bubblegum

2. Crunchy Conundrums:

Popcorn
Hard nuts and seeds
Ice cubes (chew with caution!)

3. Hard and Tough Choices:

Hard pretzels
Tough cuts of meat (unless tenderised)
Corn on the cob (opt for off-the-cob alternatives)

4. Foods Requiring Biting:

Whole apples (slice them for ease)
Raw carrots (steam or cut into small pieces)
Bagels and crusty bread (go for softer varieties)

Braces Friendly Snacks for Every Craving

Brace-friendly snacks are a delicious way to satisfy cravings while ensuring optimal oral health. Regardless of which type of braces you have; traditional braces, lingual braces or even Invisalign – it’s important to eat the right foods.

From crunchy veggies like carrots and celery to sticky treats like popcorn and yogurt, there are a variety of options to choose from. These snacks are not only tasty but also gentle on braces, reducing the risk of damage. So, let’s keep snack time exciting and braces-friendly with these creative ideas:

Frozen Grapes: A cool and soothing treat (wash your grapes, wrap them in paper towels, chuck them in the fridge and voila! Instant snack).
Smoothie Bowls: Blend your favourite fruits and top with braces-friendly toppings.
Cheese and Crackers: Soft cheeses paired with braces-friendly crackers make for a delightful snack.
Hummus and Veggie Sticks: A crunchy and satisfying option without the risks.

Surviving the First Week of Braces: Your Soft Diet Survival Kit

Starting your first week with metal or ceramic braces, teeth retainers – any type really? First of all, congratulations on taking the first step in improving your smile and oral health! It’s important to remember that braces will take time to adjust, and you may have some soreness or discomfort for the first few days. To help you settle in quicker, it’s a good idea to stock up on soft foods and snacks that can be eaten without having to chew too much. The less your mouth has to do during this time the better!

What To Eat On The First Week Of Braces

We’ve decided to take the extra mile and provide you with a soft diet for braces survival kit to keep you nourished and comfortable;

Soups and Broths: Warm and soothing for the initial adjustment

Protein Shakes: A tasty way to get your protein without much chewing.

Pasta Delights: Opt for soft pasta varieties with smooth sauces (blending your sauces is an easy way to do so!)

Connect with Your Orthodontist for a Smile-Friendly Journey

Maintaining open communication with your orthodontist is crucial for a successful braces journey. If you have questions or concerns about your diet, schedule an appointment with our orthodontist, Dr Eugene Chan to discuss your specific needs. Check out our Chatswood and Zetland locations while you’re at it!

Connect with Your Orthodontist for a Smile-Friendly Journey

Embrace the crunch, savour the softness, and relish every bite on your braces adventure. Remember, a well-nourished and happy you makes for a successful orthodontic journey. Now, let the culinary exploration begin, and may your smile shine brighter with each delicious bite!