One of the most important things to think about after getting braces put on is changing your eating habits so that the braces do not get broken and your teeth do not suffer. Braces are not able to withstand the pressure that is put on them when you bite into many types of foods, so continuing to eat as you normally would can cause your braces to break, possibly injuring you or impacting the effectiveness of your treatment. This doesn’t mean that you need to change everything, though; it just means that you need to make some changes to the way you eat to accommodate the braces.
Eat Softer Foods
When you first get your braces on and for a few days after getting braces tightened, orthodontists recommend that you opt for soft foods. Foods like mashed potatoes, applesauce, yogurt, rice, and spinach are among the many things that can be eaten. Avoid going on an ice cream binge or leaning towards unhealthy foods that you wouldn’t normally eat just because they are soft. It is as important as ever to make sure that you still maintain a healthy diet.
Cut Foods into Pieces
After your teeth begin to adjust to braces and the tension abates, it can be tempting to dive into your favorite foods without reservation. Even after the tension has subsided, however, you still run the risk of breaking your braces or harming your teeth with certain foods. To avoid depriving yourself while keeping your teeth and braces safe, you can cut up some of your favorite foods so that you can still eat these foods without the risk. Pizza, sandwiches, fresh fruit, and meats should be cut small for best results.
Avoid Sticky and Sugary Foods
Foods and even beverages that are extremely sugary or sticky (think taffy and soda) can get stuck in braces brackets and on your teeth. The sticky residue from these foods can make it very difficult for you to clean your teeth and braces well, which may result in sugar and acid being left on your teeth.
You may wish to take the opportunity to improve your diet and begin staying away from sticky and sugary types of foods altogether. Since many types of foods that are healthy are okay to eat with braces, opting for a healthier diet may make it easier to stay away from foods that are not recommended while wearing braces.
If you’re ready to get started with braces, call us today at 407-447-9060.