Braces Are a Lifestyle Change—But You’ve Got Options
Starting orthodontic treatment means making a few adjustments to your daily habits—including what you eat. While braces do require some changes, the good news is that you can still enjoy delicious, satisfying meals—you’ll just want to be mindful of what keeps your treatment on track.
At Croco Orthodontics, we help patients across Coralville and Mt. Pleasant navigate their new routines with confidence. Here’s your go-to guide for what’s safe to eat (and what to avoid) with braces.
Why Food Choices Matter
When you’re wearing braces, your teeth are under constant pressure, and your appliances are more delicate than they look. Eating the wrong foods can lead to:
- Broken brackets
- Bent wires
- Discomfort during chewing
- Extra appointments to repair damage
Being smart about what you eat means fewer delays in treatment—and a smoother, more comfortable experience overall.
What to Eat with Braces
Stick with soft, easy-to-chew foods—especially during the first few days after getting your braces or during adjustment periods. Foods like mashed potatoes, smoothies, pasta, yogurt, scrambled eggs, steamed vegetables, and soft fruits (like bananas or berries) are all great choices.
As you adjust to treatment, you’ll be able to eat a wider variety of foods, but it’s always best to keep things tender and easy on your appliances.
Foods to Avoid
There are a few types of food that don’t play well with braces. Avoid:
- Sticky foods like gum, caramel, or chewy candies
- Hard foods such as popcorn, nuts, raw carrots, or hard pretzels
- Crunchy items like tortilla chips or crusty bread
- Foods you bite into with your front teeth, like apples or corn on the cob (unless you cut them into small, manageable pieces)
These items can damage your braces or get stuck in hard-to-reach areas, increasing your risk for plaque buildup.
Tips for Snacking and Meal Prep
- Cut your food into smaller bites
- Chew slowly and carefully
- Avoid biting into anything with your front teeth
- Brush and rinse after meals to keep your braces clean
- Keep orthodontic wax on hand for minor irritation from brackets or wires
Don’t Worry—It Gets Easier
The first week or two with braces may feel like a big change, but most patients adjust quickly. Soon, you’ll find a rhythm and discover your favorite braces-friendly meals and snacks. Our team is always here to offer suggestions and help troubleshoot any discomfort you experience along the way.
Still Have Questions? We’re Here to Help
Every patient is different, and your food experience may vary depending on your treatment plan. If you ever have a question about what’s safe to eat—or if something doesn’t feel quite right—just reach out.
At Croco Orthodontics, we’re here to make your treatment smooth, supportive, and successful from start to finish.