When you first have your braces put on, your mouth is going to be sore for a few days and need some time to recover. During your treatment, you will have your braces tightened and adjusted every six to eight weeks. These visits can leave your mouth sore, and you may not feel like eating. Your orthodontist could even instruct you to take aspirin or ibuprofen before each visit and for some time after. You will also need to adjust your diet for at least day or two after each visit to allow your mouth time to recuperate. You don't have to stick to ice cream and water when you are dealing with your oral care; there are many soft foods for braces that are tasty and easy to prepare.
Boring Foods Are a Thing of the Past
The old "standby" soft foods for braces for any type of dental work done is mashed potatoes, ice cream and smoothies. Boring, right? Especially when you’re hanging out with friends, and watching them eating pizza and nachos. Thankfully, there are many great food options that allow you to eat what you like while you take great care of your teeth during their treatment.
Foods to Avoid
Your orthodontist will tell you to avoid certain foods, and you should definitely take their advice as it comes from many years of education and experience. Hard foods, like hard bread, pizza crusts and hard candy should be avoided for the entire time you are in braces. You should also avoid most nuts and seeds, as these can not only cause pain, they can knock hardware loose or break a band, causing pain and an unexpected visit to the orthodontist. Each time you have your braces tightened or adjusted, you should avoid crunchy foods and foods that need to be bitten or heavily chewed. Don't worry, though, you still have tasty options when you are choosing soft foods for braces.
What Can I Eat?
Just because you've sworn off "yummy" foods in the name of a beautiful smile, doesn't mean you have to give up everything tasty. There are lots of soft foods for braces that you can still enjoy, beyond smoothies and ice cream. Remember to stick to soft foods. Very soft pastas, homemade soups and cooked or mashed veggies are great options. Soft fruits such as berries can also be great options. Soft, cooked meats are good options. A piece of tender Tilapia or salmon can feel like heaven when you have a sore mouth. You can also have soft breads, just remember to cut off the crust before you eat it. Try searching Google, YouTube or Pinterest and you’ll find thousands of recipes that are delicious and friendly to patients that have braces.
Wearing braces doesn't have to be full of trials and tribulations. These tips on choosing soft foods for braces will help you prepare your meals in advance and eat different things at each meal time. This will also cut down on mealtime boredom or frustration for you and your family.
What are some of your favorite recipes for soothing sore teeth?
