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, there are some foods that are hard on your teeth and jaw that should be avoided when you are getting orthodontic treatment. Damaging your braces 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, to 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 to 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
There are a number of proteins and vegetables that 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. They 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.
