Getting braces can be an exciting time, as it means you are on your way to a beautiful, straight smile. However, it also means making some adjustments to your diet to ensure your braces stay in good condition and your teeth stay healthy.
In this article, we will discuss the best foods to eat just after getting braces, as well as some tips for maintaining good oral hygiene while wearing braces.
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Why Is Diet Important When You Have Braces?
Braces are delicate and can easily be damaged by certain foods. Additionally, certain foods can get stuck in your braces and cause plaque buildup, leading to tooth decay and other oral health issues.
It is important to follow a braces-friendly diet to ensure your braces stay in good condition and your teeth stay healthy.
Soft Foods Are Key
After getting braces, your teeth and gums may be sore for a few days. It is important to stick to soft foods during this time to avoid causing further discomfort.
Soft foods are also less likely to get stuck in your braces, making them easier to clean and reducing the risk of plaque buildup.
Avoid Hard, Sticky, and Crunchy Foods
Hard, sticky, and crunchy foods can easily damage your braces or get stuck in them, causing discomfort and increasing the risk of oral health issues.
Foods to avoid include:
- Hard candies
- Popcorn
- Nuts
- Chewy candies
- Gum
- Hard fruits and vegetables (such as apples and carrots)
Foods to Eat Just After Getting Braces
Now that we know which foods to avoid, let’s take a look at some braces-friendly foods that are safe to eat just after getting braces.
Soft Fruits and Vegetables
Soft fruits and vegetables are a great option for those with braces. They are easy to chew and won’t damage your braces.
Some examples of soft fruits and vegetables include:
- Bananas
- Avocados
- Berries
- Cooked vegetables (such as steamed carrots or boiled potatoes)
Soft Proteins
Protein is an essential part of any diet, and luckily, there are plenty of soft protein options that are safe for those with braces.
Some examples of soft proteins include:
- Scrambled eggs
- Soft-cooked chicken or fish
- Tofu
- Soft cheeses (such as cottage cheese or ricotta)
Soft Grains
Grains are another important part of a balanced diet, and there are plenty of soft options that are safe for those with braces.
Some examples of soft grains include:
- Soft bread (such as white bread or pita bread)
- Soft tortillas
- Soft pasta (such as macaroni or penne)
- Oatmeal
Soft Treats
Just because you have braces doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy some treats. There are plenty of soft options that are safe for those with braces.
Some examples of soft treats include:
- Pudding
- Ice cream
- Smoothies
- Milkshakes
Tips for Maintaining Good Oral Hygiene with Braces
In addition to following a braces-friendly diet, it is important to maintain good oral hygiene while wearing braces. Here are some tips to help you keep your braces and teeth clean and healthy.
Brush and Floss Regularly
Brushing and flossing regularly is essential for maintaining good oral hygiene with braces. It is recommended to brush your teeth after every meal, as food can easily get stuck in your braces and cause plaque buildup.
Flossing can be a bit trickier with braces, but it is still important to do. You can use floss threaders or interdental brushes to help you floss between your braces and teeth.
Use a Water Flosser
A water flosser is a great tool for those with braces. It uses a stream of water to clean between your teeth and braces, making it easier to remove food particles and plaque.
Rinse with Mouthwash
Using a mouthwash can help kill bacteria and freshen your breath. It is especially important to use a mouthwash with braces, as it can help clean hard-to-reach areas and reduce the risk of plaque buildup.
Avoid Sugary and Acidic Foods
Sugary and acidic foods can increase the risk of tooth decay and other oral health issues. It is important to limit your intake of these foods, especially while wearing braces.
Choose “Braces Friendly Fare”
Following a braces-friendly diet and maintaining good oral hygiene are essential for keeping your braces and teeth in good condition. By avoiding hard, sticky, and crunchy foods and sticking to soft options, you can ensure your braces stay in good condition and your teeth stay healthy.
Remember to brush and floss regularly, use a water flosser, and rinse with mouthwash to keep your braces and teeth clean and healthy. With these tips, you can enjoy your journey to a beautiful, straight smile with minimal discomfort and oral health issues.
