Foods Safe to Eat with Braces

If you’re undergoing orthodontic treatment with braces, you may be wondering what foods you can and can’t eat. Certain foods can damage your braces or get stuck in between your brackets and wires, causing discomfort, and potentially even prolonging your treatment. But don’t worry – there are plenty of delicious and healthy foods that are safe to eat with braces. Here are some examples:

Soft fruits and vegetables

Soft fruits and vegetables are a great choice for anyone with braces. Some examples include bananas, grapes, peaches, strawberries, melons, avocados, cooked carrots, squash, and sweet potatoes. These foods are easy to chew and won’t damage your braces.

Dairy products 

Dairy products such as milk, cheese, and yogurt are also safe to eat with braces. Not only are they soft and easy to chew, but they also contain important nutrients that can help keep your teeth and bones healthy.

Cooked grains and pasta

Cooked grains and pasta are also safe options for those with braces. Soft grains like rice, quinoa, and couscous, as well as cooked pasta like spaghetti and macaroni, are easy to eat and won’t damage your braces.

Soft proteins

Soft proteins like eggs, tofu, and fish are also safe to eat with braces. Avoid tough or chewy meats like beef or pork, as well as hard or crunchy proteins like nuts and seeds.

Smoothies and shakes 

If you’re looking for a quick and easy meal or snack, consider making a smoothie or shake. Blend together soft fruits, yogurt, milk, and other ingredients for a nutritious and delicious treat that won’t damage your braces.

Remember, while there are plenty of foods that are safe to eat with braces, there are also some foods that you should avoid. These include hard, crunchy, sticky, or chewy foods like popcorn, nuts, candy, and gum. Additionally, you should avoid biting into foods with your front teeth, as this can damage your braces.

Following these guidelines can help ensure that your braces treatment goes smoothly and that your teeth remain healthy and strong. If you have any questions about what foods are safe to eat with braces, be sure to talk to your orthodontist.