Getting braces is a huge step toward a straighter, healthier smile. However, they come with an adjustment period, especially when it comes to eating soft foods for braces. If you’re wondering what foods are on the table, dealing with soreness, or trying to avoid damaging your brackets, this handy guide has you covered.
What Soft Foods Can You Eat When You Get Braces?
During the first week with braces (or in the days after an adjustment), your teeth and gums may feel a bit sore. Sticking to soft foods will help keep you comfortable, and there are plenty of nutritious options to choose from.
Breakfast Ideas
- Scrambled eggs – Soft, protein-packed, and easy to eat
- Smoothies – Blend yogurt, bananas, and soft fruits for a nutritious meal
- Oatmeal – Warm and comforting, and you can add cinnamon or mashed fruit for flavor
- Pancakes or waffles – Just skip crunchy toppings like nuts
Lunch & Dinner Options
- Mashed potatoes – A classic soft food that’s easy to eat
- Soup – Tomato, chicken noodle, or blended vegetable soups are perfect choices
- Mac and cheese – Creamy and easy to eat, so it’s a braces-friendly favorite
- Soft pasta – Try spaghetti, fettuccine, or buttered noodles for an easy meal
- Steamed veggies – Carrots, broccoli, and squash get softer and easy to chew when cooked
- Soft fish – Baked or grilled fish like salmon is easy to eat and full of healthy fats
Snacks & Dessert Ideas
- Yogurt – A great option that’s gentle on sensitive teeth
- Applesauce – No chewing required, and it’s packed with vitamins
- Cottage cheese – Soft, nutritious, and easy on braces
- Pudding or Jell-O – A sweet treat in moderation that won’t cause any damage
- Ice cream – Cold treats can help soothe soreness; just skip hard mix-ins like nuts or candy
Foods to avoid the first week with braces include anything hard, sticky, crunchy, or chewy.
Soft Foods To Eat When Your Braces Hurt
Braces can be pretty uncomfortable at times, especially if you’re wearing metal braces. If your teeth are especially sore, here are some extra soothing food options.
- Mashed bananas are easy to eat and packed with potassium for healing.
- Blended soups are warm and smooth, with no chewing required.
- Rice or risotto are soft grains that require minimal effort to chew.
- Soft bread with butter, as long as it’s not too chewy or crusty.
- Cold drinks can help numb soreness while providing nutrients.
If you find yourself struggling with pain, stick to eating cold foods, using orthodontic wax, or taking over-the-counter pain relief as needed. For pain that still persists or that concerns you, talk to your orthodontist directly.
What Foods Should You Avoid With Braces?
While there are plenty of braces-friendly foods, some should be avoided to prevent damage to your brackets and wires. Stay away from:
- Crunchy foods (chips, popcorn, hard taco shells, etc.)
- Sticky foods (caramel, gum, taffy, etc.)
- Hard foods (nuts, ice cubes, raw carrots, candy, etc.)
- Chewy foods (bagels, tough meats, licorice, etc.)
It’s important to follow these guidelines to avoid unnecessary trips to the orthodontist for repairs.
How Long Do You Need To Eat Soft Foods With Braces?
The first few days after getting braces are usually the most uncomfortable, so it’s best to stick to soft foods for at least 5 to 7 days. After that, you can start including more solid foods—just make sure they’re not too hard or sticky.
If you just had your braces tightened or adjusted, you might experience soreness again for a couple of days. Returning to soft foods during those times is a good idea.
Soft Foods To Eat When You Get Braces Removed
The day you remove your braces is exciting! Still, your teeth and gums may feel a little sensitive after the braces come off. Just because your braces are gone doesn’t mean you should jump straight into tough or hard-to-chew foods right away. After wearing braces for months or even years, your teeth and bite will need some time to adjust. It’s best to ease slowly back into crunchy and chewy foods.
Many of the same foods you ate with braces—like pasta, eggs, yogurt, and cooked veggies—are perfect soft foods to eat with your braces-free smile. Remember, this period of sensitivity is temporary. Within just a few days, you’ll be ready to enjoy all the foods you missed while wearing braces!
Keep Your Smile Healthy by Eating Soft Foods for Braces
Eating soft foods is just one part of adjusting to life with braces. While it may take some getting used to, the results of a straight, confident smile are totally worth it.
If you’re considering braces in Queen Creek, San Tan Valley, Mesa, or any of the surrounding areas, explore our orthodontic options at Peterson Family Orthodontics. Schedule your free consultation today!