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Congratulations on taking the first steps toward achieving the smile of your dreams! We understand you may have questions about caring for your braces, and we’re here to guide you.
Dr. Willcox and our team will walk you through the process of getting braces during your consultation. However, here are some answers to common questions you may have:
Foods to Avoid with Braces:
While you won’t need to say goodbye to your favorite foods, you’ll need to adjust how you eat them to protect your braces:
Chewy Foods: Foods like jerky and licorice can be challenging to eat with braces. Opt for softer alternatives.
- Crunchy Delights: Items like granola bars, chips, and ice can potentially harm your braces. Enjoy them in moderation and break them into smaller pieces.
- Sticky Treats: Caramel candies and chewing gum can get stuck in your braces. Enjoy these sweets less frequently.
- Hard Snacks: Nuts and hard candies can pose a risk to your braces. Consider softer alternatives.
- Foods Requiring Biting: Corn on the cob, apples, and carrots can be enjoyed by cutting them into bite-sized pieces.
Foods You Can Enjoy with Braces:
You can still savor a variety of delicious foods that are brace-friendly:
Dairy Delights: Soft cheeses, pudding, and milk-based drinks are braces-friendly options.
- Gentle Grains: Soft tortillas, pancakes, and muffins without nuts are great choices.
- Grains Galore: Pasta and soft-cooked rice can be part of your diet.
- Meats and Poultry: Soft-cooked chicken, meatballs, and lunch meats are suitable for braces.
- Seafood Selections: Tuna, salmon, and crab cakes are delicious and safe for braces.
- Veggies: Mashed potatoes, steamed spinach, and beans are excellent options.
- Fruit Faves: Applesauce, bananas, and fruit juice can satisfy your sweet tooth.
- Sweet Treats: Indulge in ice cream without nuts, milkshakes, Jell-O, and soft cake.
Playing Sports with Braces:
Good news for athletes! You can continue playing sports while wearing braces. We recommend using a mouthguard to protect both your teeth and your appliance. If a sports-related emergency occurs, check your mouth and braces for any damage. If your tooth is knocked out or you notice damage to the appliance, contact our office immediately. You can temporarily alleviate discomfort by applying wax or rinsing your mouth with warm saltwater.
Flossing with Braces:
Proper oral hygiene is essential with braces. Check out our video on how to floss your teeth effectively while wearing braces.
We’re here to support you on your journey to a beautiful smile. Feel free to reach out if you have any questions or concerns about your braces care.