Brace Yourself: Your First Week Menu Survival Guide!
Getting braces on is an exciting time! Braces can help straighten your teeth and give you a healthy, beautiful smile. However, eating certain foods can be a little tricky when you have braces. But don’t worry! AB Orthodontics is here to help you figure out what you can eat that’s safe and delicious.
Let’s dig in!
When you first get your braces on, your teeth might feel sore. That’s why the foods listed below can be a great choice!
1. Soft Foods
• Creamy Soups: Warm and comforting soups, like tomato or chicken noodle soup, are gentle on your braces and super tasty, too!
• Mashed Potatoes: Fluffy mashed potatoes are easy to eat and a delightful side dish to any meal.
• Applesauce: This fruity treat is not only delicious but also braces-friendly. Enjoy it plain or mix in some cinnamon for an extra twist of flavor.
• Jell-O, scrambled eggs, and oatmeal are all great choices, too!
2. Fruity Fun: Fruits are packed with vitamins and great for a healthy smile.
• Bananas: They’re not only yummy, but also super easy to eat. Just peel and enjoy!
• Seedless grapes: These juicy gems can be popped into your mouth without any worries. Remember to chew them with your back teeth!
• Sliced melons: Watermelon, cantaloupe, and honeydew are refreshing and braces-friendly. Cut them into bite-sized pieces for easy snacking.
• All other fruits can be enjoyed as well, just make sure to cut them into bite-sized pieces!
3. Dairy Delights: Dairy products are not only delicious but also provide essential nutrients for strong teeth.
• Yogurt: Creamy and cool, yogurt is a fantastic snack, especially the smooth varieties.
• Soft cheeses: Try yummy options like cottage cheese, or mozzarella cheese sticks. They’re easy to eat and go well with crackers or sliced veggies.
• Pudding and smoothies are friendly, too!
4. Proteins: Protein is important for our bodies, and there are plenty of options that won’t harm your braces.
• Soft meats: Tender chicken, fish, or ground beef that’s been cooked thoroughly are safe and delicious choices.
• Seafood: Enjoy fish, shrimp, or crab cakes without any worry. Just make sure they don’t have any sharp or hard points.
5. Pasta and Grains Galore: You don’t have to give up your favorite pasta dishes or grains. Just make them braces-friendly by cooking them well.
• Pasta dishes: Spaghetti, macaroni and cheese, or ravioli with sauce are fantastic choices.
• Rice and couscous: Enjoy fluffy rice or couscous dishes like pilaf or risotto. They’re gentle on your braces and full of flavor.
It’s important to avoid crunchy, sticky, or hard foods that can damage your braces. Steer clear of popcorn, nuts, gum, caramel, and gummy candies for now. Cut your food into smaller pieces and chew slowly.
Having braces doesn’t mean you have to give up delicious food. With these braces-friendly options, you can still enjoy a wide range of tasty treats while keeping your smile healthy. Embrace your braces and get ready to indulge in these yummy foods! If you remember to take care of your braces by brushing and flossing regularly too, before you know it, you’ll have a beautiful, straight smile!
Bon appetit!