What to Eat with Braces the First Week
You’ve been chewing and swallowing food your entire life, but it may feel a little different after getting braces. As your mouth adjusts, it is common to experience some soreness and swelling in the first week. While this is a completely normal part of the process, eating softer foods will help you avoid additional discomfort. In this guide, we will provide you favorable food options for every meal of the day, so you can continue to eat a healthy and balanced diet as you grow accustomed to your braces!
What to Eat
Soft foods are easy to chew and swallow, which makes them the perfect solution for accommodating mouth sensitivity. By limiting the pressure on the braces, you give your mouth space to heal and adapt. Sticking to soft foods your first week will help mitigate discomfort and keep your braces in good shape. Review the lists below for orthodontist-approved food recommendations.
Breakfast
- Eggs
- Mashed avocado on toast
- Oatmeal
- Smoothies
- Yogurt
- Pancakes
- Cream of Wheat
Lunch
- Grilled cheese sandwich
- Macaroni and cheese
- Soup
- Creamy peanut butter and jelly on soft bread
- Soft Tacos
- Shredded chicken
Dinner
- Mashed potatoes
- Pasta with a soft sauce
- Fish
- Cooked vegetables
- Risotto
- Stewed or braised meats
Snacks
- Ice cream
- Jell-O
- Pudding
- Applesauce
- Cottage Cheese
- Bananas
Foods to Avoid
While there are recommended foods to eat with braces, there are certain foods you should actively avoid because they have the potential to aggravate your mouth even more. During your first week with braces, it’s important to listen to your body and use it as a guide. Be mindful of what you eat because even something as simple as the crust on bread can cause additional irritation. As your mouth begins to heal and adjust to your braces, you can ease back into a more normal diet at your own pace.
However, there are certain foods you should avoid for the duration of your braces treatment. Exceptionally sticky or crunchy foods can cause damage to your brackets and wires, which can prolong treatment time and add extra appointments.
Foods to avoid for the duration of your braces treatment include:
- Hard foods, such as popcorn, nuts, hard candy, and ice.
- Chewing gum
- Sticky Foods, such as caramel, taffy, gummies, and chewy granola bars.
- Crunchy fruits and vegetables (like apples, carrots, celery)
Eating with braces can be a little tricky, especially during the first week. By sticking to soft foods, avoiding hard and sticky foods, and maintaining good oral health you can ensure that your braces stay well-conditioned so you don’t experience any unnecessary pain. Remember to take it easy on your braces and don’t be afraid to ask your orthodontist for advice if you have any questions. With a little bit of care and attention, you’ll be able to enjoy all of your favorite foods while keeping your braces in tip-top shape.
Still Have Questions? Contact Frey Orthodontics
If you have any questions about eating with braces or are experiencing unusual discomfort, contact your orthodontist! With locations in Naperville and Algonquin, Frey Orthodontics is available to help. Contact us today or schedule a free consultation to start your journey towards a straighter smile!
