Maintaining a healthy diet is an integral part of life, and when you get braces, it can be tricky to navigate what foods are appropriate for your teeth. However, eating with braces can be easy with the proper knowledge and planning. In this post, we will discuss which types of food work best with braces so that you can stay comfortable while sporting a perfect smile in no time at all.
Orthodontic braces are used to correct misaligned bites and straighten teeth. Braces apply pressure to the teeth, gradually shifting them into their intended position. This process can be facilitated with braces that consist of metal wires and bands attached to the teeth or aligners that use molds and trays to fit snugly around the teeth for maximum support.
Depending on one’s oral condition, braces may have to be worn for up to two years to serve their purpose and properly straighten the teeth. Aligners may give a much shorter timeline. Often, just six months of treatment is required. Whatever braces one chooses will undoubtedly help correct malocclusions (misalignments) and improve overall oral health.
Having braces doesn’t mean you have to miss out on all the delicious foods life offers. Plenty of great-tasting meals and snacks are compatible with orthodontic treatment – as long as they’re carefully chosen. Here are some of the foods you can enjoy with braces:
Having braces is a significant adjustment for many people. Along with learning to adapt to the feeling of having metal brackets on your teeth, you also need to be mindful of the types of food you consume while wearing them. While some minor adjustments in diet may help prevent long-term damage and cavity formation, any changes must be closely monitored and done responsibly. Here are some of the foods to avoid with braces:
Navigating food choices while wearing braces can be difficult, and taking extra care of your dietary decisions is essential. Here are some tips and tricks for eating food while wearing braces so you can maintain a healthy diet without compromising the condition of your teeth. By following these simple guidelines, you’ll be able to continue healthily nourishing yourself while also protecting your braces from any potential harm:
When you have braces, you must cut your food into small pieces so you don’t damage your braces or hurt your teeth. Cutting your food into smaller pieces makes it easier to chew and digest.
Hard foods can damage your braces and cause pain in your teeth and gums. Avoid eating hard foods such as candy, nuts, and popcorn.
Soft foods are easier on your teeth and gums and are less likely to damage your braces. Some good soft foods are mashed potatoes, soup, cooked vegetables, yogurt, and pudding.
Sticky foods can be challenging to eat with braces and damage your braces. You should avoid eating sticky foods such as gum, caramel, and taffy.
Practicing good oral hygiene when you have braces is essential as brushing your teeth regularly and flossing carefully. This will help to prevent cavities and gum disease.
Maintaining good oral health while wearing braces is essential to ensure that braces do their job and that braces can remain effective as treatments. A critical factor in keeping braces healthy and strong is practicing proper hygiene.
Brushing your braces at least twice a day after every meal is essential, but more often, if you eat snacks or sugary foods, use fluoride toothpaste to clean teeth and orthodontic braces.
Additionally, flossing regularly will keep braces free from food particles by reaching the areas hard to reach with a toothbrush. Different types of braces require different approaches to cleaning. For example, braces with multiple components require specialized cleaning tools or products. With the proper habits and some preventive measures, it’s possible to keep your braces healthy and your mouth sparklingly clean, even with orthodontic appliances in place.
A wide range of options is available regarding braces, meaning you can choose the level of flexibility and aligning capability that suits you best. Traditional braces use metal brackets and wires, while ceramic braces are similar but with more translucent materials for a less visible appearance. Lingual braces sit on the inside surface of your teeth, so they’re almost invisible. Self-ligating braces don’t need elastics or ties, meaning fewer office visits and faster treatment times. And if you don’t want anything visible, try Invisalign braces, which use clear plastic aligners that can be removed.
Runnels Orthodontics in Destin, FL provides various braces for your dental needs. These braces range from traditional metal braces to discreet braces that can barely be seen. Our orthodontic experts will work with you to decide which type suits your needs and desired outcomes best.
By scheduling a consultation with us today, we can start you on the path toward improving your smile and oral health. We are committed to helping you reach your orthodontic goals quickly and conveniently with our extensive selection of braces suited for every individual’s unique needs. Contact us today for a consultation to discuss your braces options and begin creating the beautiful new smile you desire.
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