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Braces effectively align or straighten misaligned teeth and address other dental problems, like an overbite, underbite, or gap. They can also dramatically improve your teeth and enhance your oral health. Although they have become sturdier, thanks to modern technology, they still require a specific diet to maintain good oral hygiene and prevent damage.
Sticky, hard, or chewy food can damage brace components, including wires, rubber bands, or even the brackets themselves. This is why you might have to give up some of the foods you love because they can get stuck. To have an easier time adjusting as a new brace wearer, use this guide to learn more about what you can and cannot eat with braces.
What Can I Eat When I First Get Braces?
Braces can make your mouth sensitive days after your appointment. Because of this, eating foods that are hard to chew can be painful. You will also feel pressure on your teeth, but it will eventually disappear after a few days. To make your eating experience more comfortable, here are some soft foods that are recommended by our dentists in Ann Arbor when you first get braces:
- Soups
- Scrambled eggs
- Cooked or soft vegetables
- Moist desserts
- Pasta
- Oatmeal
- Grains
- Mashed potatoes
- Yogurt
- Seafood
- Soft fruits
- Soft cheeses
What Are Some Foods I Need to Be Mindful Of When Wearing Braces?
Many foods are fine to eat with braces, so you don’t have to say goodbye to some of your most favorite snacks and dishes. However, some foods considered “safe” might not be ideal when you first get braces since they can irritate your mouth. Here are some foods that are best avoided with braces:
Meat products
Steak, chicken, and other meats can be delicious, but they can cause pressure and pain in your teeth because they are often stringy and hard to chew. Their little pieces can also easily get stuck between your teeth. If you plan on eating meat with braces, make sure to cut it into bite-sized pieces. Opt also for lean, tender meat products and choice cuts to ensure they are easy to chew.
Sweets
Chocolate, cake, ice cream, and other treats are regarded as safe to eat with braces. However, although they can be chewed with ease, limiting the sweets you eat is advisable during your orthodontic treatment. Doing this will prevent bacteria growth that can cause gum disease and cavities.
Pizza
Thick-crust pizza can be difficult to chew while wearing dental braces. Instead, order thin-crust pizza because it is usually easier to eat. You can also leave the thick crust behind if you have no control over your pizza order.
Bread
Avoid hard rolls, french bread, croutons, and other bread that is difficult to chew to prevent your braces from getting damaged. Opt for soft bread instead. Just make sure to thoroughly clean your teeth after eating because the bread might get stuck in your braces.
Conclusion
Getting braces allows you to take a step closer to having healthier teeth and a more attractive smile. You must adhere to an ideal diet to get your desired results from your orthodontic treatment. Get started in exploring your dental options by booking an appointment with our dentists.
If you need to get braces in Waterford or Ann Arbor, reach out to Dental House MI. Our dentists will straighten your teeth and give you the confidence to smile beautifully with traditional braces or Invisalign. Schedule a consultation today to learn more about which treatment is best for your needs!
