Getting braces is an exciting step toward achieving a beautiful smile. However, it requires some temporary adjustments, particularly when it comes to your diet. After getting braces, your teeth and gums may feel sore. Choosing the right foods is essential to avoid discomfort and protect your braces. Knowing when and what to eat can greatly affect your overall experience with braces and help ensure a smooth transition to your new smile.
When can you start eating regular food after getting braces?
The timeline for resuming regular food after getting braces varies based on several factors, including how your mouth feels and your ability to chew comfortably.
Dr. Polina Ingberman from Brace Central says, “After getting braces, it’s common to experience soreness and discomfort in your mouth, which typically lasts approximately two to three days. After that, most foods can be eaten, but very crunchy, hard, or sticky foods should be avoided.”
During this time of initial adjustment, it’s best to stick to soft foods that won’t increase discomfort or damage your braces. While each person’s experience varies, most people can gradually start reintroducing regular foods into their diet in the next one to two weeks after getting braces.
If you still experience significant discomfort after a week, continue eating soft foods and consult your orthodontist for personalized advice.
Why do orthodontists recommend a dietary restriction after getting braces?
Braces are a significant investment in your oral health. To help them work effectively and efficiently, your orthodontist may recommend certain dietary restrictions.
Protection of Braces
Hard, crunchy, or sticky foods can easily damage the brackets and wires of your braces. This damage can lead to potential repairs and extended treatment time. Biting into hard foods, such as nuts or raw vegetables, can cause the brackets to come loose or the wires to bend, hindering the progress of your orthodontic treatment.
Minimize Discomfort
After getting braces, your teeth and gums are typically more sensitive, making it uncomfortable to chew hard foods. Soft foods reduce strain on your teeth, allowing you to eat more comfortably while adjusting to your braces.
Oral Hygiene Maintenance
Sticky and sugary foods can easily get trapped in the braces. Stuck food particles can lead to plaque accumulation around the brackets and increase the risk of cavities and gum disease. Dietary restrictions help you maintain cleaner braces and a healthier mouth.
What type of food should you eat initially after getting braces?
After getting braces, it’s crucial to choose foods that are soft and easy to chew to avoid discomfort and protect your braces. Below, the recommended foods are divided into categories for a clear understanding.
- Soft carbohydrates: Mashed potatoes, pasta, noodles, and well-cooked rice can be excellent choices for carbohydrates. Soft cereals like oatmeal are ideal as they provide a nutritious start to your day without causing any strain on your teeth.
- Protein: Protein is essential, and there are many soft options to include in your diet. Scrambled eggs are easy to prepare and chew, making them a perfect choice. Tofu is another soft protein that can be incorporated into various dishes. Soft-cooked fish can also be tender and rich in nutrients. Meatballs, hamburger patties, and roasted chicken are also excellent options.
- Dairy products: Dairy products like yogurt and cottage cheese are great for maintaining strong teeth and are gentle on your braces. You can enjoy yogurt plain or with soft fruits, while smoothies made with yogurt or milk offer a great way to consume multiple nutrients without chewing.
- Vegetables and fruit: Vegetables should be cooked until tender or mashed to avoid putting pressure on your teeth. Soft-cooked vegetables like spinach, zucchini, and peas are nutritious and easy to consume. When it comes to fruits, stick to naturally soft options like bananas.
- Comfort foods: Warm soups, smooth puddings, custards, and soft ice cream can soothe sore gums and provide a satisfying treat. While it’s important to consume these in moderation, they offer both nutrition and a bit of indulgence.
Tips on eating with braces after the initial adjustment
Eating with braces requires some adjustments to ensure you maintain comfort and protect your orthodontic appliances. Here are some helpful tips:
- Cut Food into Small Pieces: Cutting food into smaller, manageable pieces reduces the risk of damaging your braces.
- Stay Hydrated: Drinking water regularly helps wash away food particles that may get stuck in your braces. It reduces the risk of plaque buildup and cavities.
- Chew Slowly and Carefully: Take your time when eating, and chew slowly to avoid putting too much pressure on your braces. This also helps in minimizing discomfort.
- Brush and Floss After Eating: Maintain good oral hygiene by brushing and flossing after meals to remove any food particles stuck in your braces. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and orthodontic flossers for effective cleaning.
- Be Cautious with Sticky and Hard Foods: Avoid foods that can easily get stuck in your braces. Sticky foods like gum and caramel, and hard foods like nuts and popcorn, should be off-limits to protect your braces.
Brace Central: Get Confident Smiles with Care
Transform your smile at Brace Central, where we combine advanced technology with years of experience to offer exceptional orthodontic care. Our patient-centric care ensures comfort and satisfaction at every step of your treatment. Schedule your consultation today at 718-998-1888 and take the first step toward a confident smile!
Disclaimer: The information provided above is for informational purposes only and does not amount to professional medical advice or treatment. Consult a qualified orthodontist before you decide to get braces. Individual results may vary, and the content does not guarantee specific outcomes.