What to Eat With Braces the First Week

Okay, parents. Your child got braces. And we all know that the first week with braces can be a little challenging when it comes to eating. But don't panic! There are still plenty of food options that your child can enjoy. In this blog post, we'll give you some tips on what to eat with braces during the first week. And don't worry, we'll keep it light and breezy. Let's get started.

1. Keep it Soft and Simple

During the first week of having braces, it's important that your child's teeth and gums get used to the new hardware. That means avoiding hard, crunchy, and sticky foods.

Instead, opt for these soft and simple kid favorites:

• macaroni and cheese
• meatloaf
• mashed potatoes
• scrambled eggs
• smoothies
• soup
• ice cream
• pudding
• apple sauce
• yogurt
• pancakes
• French toast
• cottage cheese
• cooked veggies
• fruit cups
• canned fruit (peaches, pears, mandarin oranges)

2. Cut Your Food into Small Pieces

If your child is craving some solid food, make sure to cut it into small, bite-sized pieces. This will make it easier for them to chew and prevent any damage to their brackets and wires. Soft fruits and cooked vegetables, like steamed carrots or green beans, are perfect examples of foods that can be cut into tiny pieces.

3. Drink Plenty of Water

When your child has braces, it's important that they stay hydrated. Drinking plenty of water not only keeps them hydrated but also helps wash away any debris and bacteria around the brackets and wires. Plus, it's sugar-free! So, remind your child to carry a water bottle around and sip frequently.

4. Try Ortho-Friendly Foods

Believe it or not, there are foods that actually help promote healthy teeth and gums – and they're great for kids with braces. Foods like dairy products, fruits high in Vitamin C, and leafy greens are excellent for maintaining strong and healthy teeth. Plus, they're soft, easy to chew, and won't harm your child's braces.

5. Avoid Certain Foods

Now, let's talk about what to avoid during the first week of braces. As mentioned earlier, hard, crunchy, and sticky foods should be avoided throughout orthodontic treatment. But there are other foods to steer clear of, such as caramel, popcorn, nuts, gum, and hard candies. These foods can damage brackets, and wires, and can even cause teeth to shift.

Sore Teeth First Week with Braces

It's normal for children to experience some discomfort and sensitivity during the first week of braces. But by following these tips on what to eat with braces, you can make the transition a little easier for them. Just remember to keep it soft and simple, cut food into small pieces, drink plenty of water, try ortho-friendly foods, and avoid certain foods. And if you're ever unsure about whether a certain food is safe for your child, just give us a call! Cheers to healthy and happy teeth!