Braces are an incredible tool for achieving a beautiful, healthy smile. The first few days with braces can be an adjustment period as your mouth gets used to the new hardware and you adjust your diet. With the proper knowledge and patience, you can enjoy delicious meals while ensuring your orthodontic treatment stays on track. In this blog post, we’ll take you through what to eat during the first week with braces and provide some tips for a smooth transition.
What to Eat With Braces the First Day
On the first day with braces, your teeth will be more sensitive than usual, so choosing appropriate foods is recommended. As the adhesive dries, your braces are at their most delicate stage. Initially, it’s best to stick to liquid and very soft foods.
Here are some braces-friendly options for your first day:
- Smoothies: Blend your favorite fruits and yogurt for a nutritious meal.
- Soup: Opt for creamy soups like tomato, potato, or butternut squash that don’t require much chewing
- Ice cream or pudding: These soft desserts are gentle on your braces and are a nice treat for kids.
- Mashed potatoes: As they’re soft and don’t require much chewing, they are the perfect comfort food for this adjustment period.
- Scrambled eggs: A great source of protein, eggs are a soft, easily prepared option.
Remember to stay hydrated the first day you have braces. Drink water throughout the day to keep your mouth comfortable and rinse out any food particles. For more ideas, see what the American Association of Orthodontists recommends, or check out this compilation of braces-friendly recipes that your whole family will love!
What Not to Eat With Braces the First Week
While craving something crunchy or chewy, remember that some foods can damage your braces and teeth. Start your journey with braces right by filling your first week with braces-friendly foods.
Here’s a list of foods to avoid during your first week with braces:
- Hard snacks: Steer clear of crunchy snacks like chips, hard pretzels, and nuts.
- Sticky candy: Caramel, taffy, and gum can quickly get stuck in your braces.
- Chewy foods: Avoid meals that require extensive chewing, such as tough meats.
- Raw fruits and veggies: While they’re healthy, skip uncooked carrots, whole apples, pineapples, and celery until your orthodontist gives you the go-ahead.
The foods above are just an example of what not to eat during your first week of orthodontic treatment. Some, like gum, corn on the cob, and popcorn, should be avoided the entire time you have braces. This not only prevents damage to your braces but it also ensures that you’re making timely progress.
When Can You Eat Solid Food After Getting Braces?
While some patients get used to their braces in a couple of days, it may take longer for others. After adjusting for the first week, you can reintroduce solid foods into your diet. Start slowly and always protect your braces. Start with softer solid foods, like well-cooked pasta or even ice cream cones, and gradually move toward more substantial foods. We are always here to help you at Walton & Maready if you have any questions.
Tips for Eating With Braces the First Week
Navigating your first week with braces can be a learning experience. Here are some tips to make this period as comfortable as possible:
- Cut food into small pieces: Reduce the pressure on your braces by cutting fruits and vegetables into small pieces.
- Take your time: Eat slowly and chew carefully to avoid discomfort.
- Rinse after eating: Use water, salt water, or mouthwash to rinse your mouth after each meal. Doing so will help prevent food particles from causing bacteria.
- Use orthodontic wax: If your braces are causing any irritation, orthodontic wax can tremendously help prevent discomfort.
- Follow your orthodontist’s instructions: They will provide vital tips after putting your braces on. To achieve the best overall results, please follow their advice. If you have any doubts, most orthodontists want you to give them a call.
- Maintain a good oral hygiene regimen by brushing your teeth at least twice a day– preferably after every meal– and flossing regularly. If you’re not yet convinced, learn more about the importance of flossing here. These combined habits will help ensure a smooth orthodontic journey.
The first week with braces may require some dietary adjustments. Still, it’s a small sacrifice for the long-term benefits of a bright, beautiful smile! By choosing soft, braces-friendly foods and following orthodontic recommendations, you will transition to having braces more smoothly.. With thoughtful decision-making– and a little patience– you’ll adapt to eating with braces in no time.
Getting braces is a positive step toward a confident smile. Were there any helpful tricks we didn’t mention that helped you adjust to your new braces? Please let us know!
