As your smile is being adjusted when you begin wearing braces, you will probably feel some discomfort that will make chewing a little more difficult. While this feeling will subside, some foods are hard on your teeth and jaw and should be avoided when you are getting orthodontic treatment.
Damaging your braces in Surrey and gums during treatment can cause problems and interfere with the process, therefore, you should avoid some of these foods as much as you can.
- Hard candy
- Popcorn
- Granola
- Crunchy Snacks
- Raw vegetables such as carrots
- Beef jerky
- Sticky candy like gummies
- Hard rolls or baguettes
- Corn on the cob
- Hard taco shells
- Nuts
- Hard cookies or crackers
- Ice
Generally, avoid all foods that are sticky, hard, or chewy. Your Vancouver orthodontist will also recommend that you avoid biting into hard foods with your front teeth, and if you must eat something hard, break it up into small pieces. Chewing on hard foods can pop brackets and wires, causing you to have to visit the orthodontist for repair and in some cases, impede your treatment.
Soft foods are recommended because they are easier on your mouth hardware. Maintaining a nutritious diet during treatment and throughout the rest of your life will help you maintain a healthy mouth and smile.
Some recommended soft foods to enjoy are:
- Fruit and vegetable smoothies
- Macaroni and cheese
- Bananas, peaches and applesauce
- Yogurt and soft cheeses
- Pastas
- Eggs
- Mashed potatoes
- Soups
Several proteins and vegetables can be prepared in such a way to be enjoyed. For example, instead of frying your chicken, with a hard crispy coating, it can be cooked soft and shredded. The key is to still enjoy healthy and nutritious foods during your orthodontic treatment, keeping your body filled with the nutrients that your bones need.
The orthodontists at Pacific West Dental can give you more information about caring for your mouth and teeth during your orthodontic treatment.
Hello! I’m Dr. Kevin Lee, a certified orthodontic specialist at PacificWest Dental Group, proudly serving the vibrant communities of Vancouver and Surrey. My journey into orthodontics began back in high school. As a teenager wearing braces, I became fascinated by the intricate blend of art, engineering, and biology that defines this field. This early experience ignited a passion that has guided me throughout my career.
I pursued my academic journey at the University of British Columbia (UBC), where I earned a Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry in 2006, followed by a Doctor of Dental Medicine in 2011. After a year-long residency at Montefiore Medical Center in New York, I returned to UBC to complete a combined Master of Science in Craniofacial Biology and a Diploma in Orthodontics in 2015. That same year, I achieved certification from both the Royal College of Dentists of Canada and the American Board of Orthodontics.
With over a decade of clinical experience, I remain deeply committed to staying at the forefront of orthodontic advancements. At PacificWest Dental Group, we prioritize personalized treatment plans tailored to each patient’s unique needs, ensuring comfort and care every step of the way. Our goal is to help you achieve the smile you’ve always dreamed of in a welcoming and supportive environment.
Outside the clinic, I enjoy engaging with our community and staying active. Whether it’s through local events or outdoor activities, I believe in building strong relationships both inside and outside the office. I look forward to meeting you and working together to create a beautiful, confident smile.
Services we provide:
-Invisalign
-Braces
-Lingual Braces
-Digital treatment planning
-TMJ and headpain treatment
-Laser Therapy
-Sleep Apnea Oral Appliance
-Dysport Cosmetic Injectables
