Can You Eat Cereal With Braces?

There’s nothing like a bowl of cereal in the morning! But if you have braces, you may want to think twice before you enjoy certain treats. Can you eat cereal with braces? The answer depends on a few different factors. Here’s your guide to eating cereal with braces. 

What You Need To Know About Eating Cereal With Braces

You can eat cereal with braces, as long as you select the right type of cereal. Some types of cereal are more likely than others to cause damage to your braces. Choosing the right type of cereal to eat is key to protecting your teeth and braces from damage.

What Cereals Can You Eat With Braces?

If you enjoy eating cereal you may be wondering what cereals are safe. Here’s an overview of the types of cereals you can eat with braces.

Soft or Soggy Cereals

Can you eat soggy cereal with braces? Yes! To make your cereal easier to chew without putting too much pressure on your braces, it’s a great idea to soften your cereal with milk and let it sit for a bit before you eat it. Here are some soft and soggy cereals you can try:

• Oatmeal: A nutritious and braces-friendly option that’s easy to eat.
• Cream of Wheat: A warm and smooth cereal that won’t cause issues with your braces.
• Well-soaked flakes: Cornflakes, Rice Krispies or other flake cereals can be enjoyed once they’ve softened in milk.

Remember, the key is to make sure your cereal is easy to chew. Soft and soggy cereals that require minimal to no chewing are therefore excellent options for patients with braces.

Puffed Cereals

Puffed cereals are naturally softer and less likely to cause damage to your braces, making them a braces-friendly choice for anybody looking to enjoy cereal. One type of puffed cereal you can try is puffed rice, since this option is light, airy and easy to chew. You can also try puffed wheat, which is another soft and braces-friendly choice. 

Instant Breakfast Cereals

Some instant breakfast cereals are specifically made to be easy on the teeth and gums. Instant oatmeal packs are a popular option. These packs are quick, simple and available in a variety of flavors. You can also try quinoa flakes, which are a nutritious alternative to traditional oatmeal. 

Smooth Cereals

For completely smooth options that won’t irritate your braces, you may want to try smooth cereals such as rice cereal. Rice-based cereals (like cream of rice) can be gentle and easy-to-chew, making them ideal for people with braces. 

Cereals to Avoid

If you have braces, you need to be extra mindful of what you eat. Steer clear of crunchy, sticky or chewy cereals while you have braces. These include granola (unless it’s very soft), muesli, crunchy corn flakes or bran flakes, and sugary cereals that can stick to your brackets. 

Choose Carefully When You Eat Cereal With Braces

You can eat cereal with braces as long as you select the right type. If you have any questions about orthodontic treatment or are ready to take the first step towards achieving the smile of your dreams, contact us at Peterson Family Orthodontics for a free consultation. Our team is here to help you get the show-stopping smile of your dreams!