If you’re considering getting braces or have already had them, you may have questions about what foods suit you. There are plenty of braces-friendly foods that you can eat throughout your orthodontic treatment. Although there are some foods you’ll need to avoid, it’s crucial to remember that having a healthy, confident smile is worth making temporary adjustments to your diet. Many patients find that the benefits of braces far outweigh the temporary restrictions on their favorite foods. By following the guidelines provided by our orthodontist and making mindful choices, you can maintain a nutritious and enjoyable diet while on your journey to a straighter smile. The following are foods you can eat with braces:
Soft Foods
Choose soft and tender foods that are easy to chew and gentle on your braces. These include mashed potatoes, cooked vegetables, smoothies, yogurt, and soups. These foods provide nourishment without placing excessive strain on your braces.
Dairy Products
Incorporate soft dairy products into your diet, as they are braces-friendly and offer various nutritional benefits. Enjoy foods such as milk, pudding, cheese, and cottage cheese, which are easy to consume and gentle on your braces.
Cooked Meats
Opt for tender, well-cooked meats that can be cut into small, bite-sized pieces without much effort. Consider options like fish, chicken, meatballs, or soft-cooked ground meat. These choices make it easier to chew and minimize the risk of damaging your braces.
Soft Fruits
Eat fruits that are easy to bite into or can be cut into smaller, manageable pieces. Opt for bananas, melons, berries, and seedless grapes. These fruits are braces-friendly as they are soft, juicy, and require minimal consumption effort.
Soft Grains
Incorporate soft and easy-to-chew grain-based foods into your diet. These foods include soft bread, cooked rice, pasta, and oatmeal. These options provide carbohydrates and fiber while being gentle on your braces.
Steamed Vegetables
You can also eat steamed or softened vegetables as they are easy to chew. These include broccoli, carrots, or cauliflower. Steaming or softening these vegetables helps make them more tender, allowing for comfortable consumption while wearing braces.
