What should you eat with braces? Dr. Chartrand and Dr. Tussing don’t want to completely rearrange your menu. But you will need to make a few changes. You might need to rethink some of your favorite dishes from 801 Chophouse or Boxer BBQ. Our Chartrand Orthodontics team has some pointers for you when it comes to braces-appropriate nutrition. We want our Omaha neighbors — like you — to have as much fun as possible during your clear or metal braces treatment. Let’s look at what you should (and shouldn’t) eat with braces.
Safe Foods to Enjoy
Eating with braces is easier when you stick to soft foods. These options won’t put too much pressure on your brackets or wires, and they still taste great!
Soft Fruits
Got a sweet tooth? Reach for fruits like bananas, strawberries, or oranges. In addition to being a yummy treat, these fruits are gentle on your teeth and gums. Plus, they’re packed with vitamins. You can even enjoy apples—just be sure to slice them into small pieces.
Dairy
Yogurt, cheese, and smoothies work great with braces. They’re soft, satisfying, and full of calcium. Try blending up a smoothie with Greek yogurt and your favorite fruits for a delicious snack. Need some recipes? As our Chartrand Orthodontics team on your next visit.
Soft Grains
Bread, pasta, and rice make mealtime easy. Skip the crusty rolls and opt for softer bread instead. Cooked pasta and rice take it easy on your teeth and can be paired with a variety of tasty sauces.
Protein
Scrambled eggs, soft chicken, and meatballs are great ways to get your protein without stressing your braces. These foods are easy to chew and can be prepared in lots of ways to keep things interesting. You can even enjoy fish or tofu for more variety.
Vegetables
Add some color to your plate with veggies! Vegetables like mashed potatoes, steamed carrots, and spinach are easy to cook and great for braces. If you love raw veggies, just cook them until they’re tender. You’ll still get all the goodness without risking your braces.
Treats
You’ve stuck with the changes so far and want to treat yourself. Dr. Chartrand and Dr. Tussing are ok with that (in moderation!). Ice cream, pudding, and soft cookies are braces-approved treats. Just avoid anything too sticky or crunchy.
Foods to Avoid
While wearing braces, some foods can cause trouble for your brackets or wires. To keep your treatment moving along, it’s best to steer clear of the following:
Hard Foods
Nuts, hard candies, raw carrots, and ice can break or loosen your brackets. Even biting into hard fruits like whole apples can be risky. If you love these foods, try slicing them into small pieces. Google recipes for fun ways to make them yummier.
Sticky Foods
Dr. Chartrand and Dr. Tussing will tell you that gum, caramel, and taffy can stick to your braces. These tacky treats might even pull your wires out of place. It’s best to pass them up altogether.
Crunchy Foods
Chips, popcorn, and hard taco shells can easily get hung up in your braces. The small pieces can also be tough to clean out, which can lead to more serious problems down the road.
Chewy Foods
Bagels, tough meats, and licorice may be delicious, but they can tug on your braces in ways that aren’t good for your teeth. Go for softer options to keep from straining your wires or breaking brackets.
Smart Snacking Tips
Who in Omaha doesn’t love a good snack here and there? But when metal or clear braces are involved, you’ve got to make smart snack choices. Here are some tips to help you snack wisely and stay comfortable.
Cut Food Into Smaller Pieces
If you’re craving harder foods like apples or carrots, dice them into tinier, bite-sized pieces. You’ll make them go down easier and protect your braces from unnecessary pressure.
Chew Slowly
Take your time while eating to avoid putting extra stress on your brackets and wires. Slow, gentle chewing reduces your risk of accidentally biting into something too hard.
Stay Hydrated
Water is your best friend! It helps wash away food particles that might get stuck in your braces. Sipping water throughout the day can also keep your mouth feeling fresh and clean.
Use Orthodontic Wax for Comfort
If you find certain foods irritating your braces, apply orthodontic wax to any areas that hurt. Orthodontic wax can help you eat more comfortably, especially when trying new foods.
Dining Out with Braces
Remember those local Omaha restaurants we mentioned? Our Chartrand Orthodontics team knows there are lots more! Eating out with braces doesn’t have to be stressful! You just have to know what to order and make a few informed decisions. Look for softer menu items like pasta, soups, and mashed potatoes. Foods like these are easy to chew and won’t put pressure on your braces. Sandwiches with soft bread are also a great option.
If you’re craving something with a bit more bite, like pizza, choose a soft crust and steer clear of tough or chewy toppings. For salads or veggie dishes, ask if they can steam the veggies. When dessert rolls around, go for something like ice cream, pudding, or a soft cake. You can still enjoy your meal while protecting your braces!
Breathtaking Braces At Chartrand Orthodontics
Our Chartrand Orthodontics team has metal and clear braces that can give you a stellar new smile. But that’s not all. We’re here to offer you all the culinary advice you need during your treatment. For more info, visit our Omaha office here to schedule your free consultation with Dr. Chartrand or Dr. Tussing.
