When it’s finally time to start with braces, you may be excited about this first step toward straighter teeth. While your teeth will move to a healthier alignment, it’s expected to feel a little sore, especially during that first week. Thankfully, making some simple adjustments to your diet can make the process easier. Keep reading to learn what foods you should stock up on and how you can manage any discomfort.
Braces-Friendly Food Options
With brackets and wires in your mouth, it might feel odd at first. As they start to get to work, you may experience some discomfort, so it’s important to stick with softer foods during your first week. Here are some yummy options:
- Soups
- Mashed potatoes
- Rice
- Scrambled eggs
- Smoothies
- Bananas
- Apple sauce
- Oatmeal
- Yogurt
Foods You Should Steer Clear From
It’s best to avoid any hard or sticky foods since they require a bit more bite force and can get stuck between your braces. To save yourself from some discomfort, you should avoid:
- Nuts and popcorn
- Hard pretzels
- Corn on the cob
- Caramel, taffy, and other similar sticky sweets
- Hard candies
- Gum
- Lollipops
How Can I Care for My Teeth with Braces?
While you find meals that you enjoy and you don’t get bored with, it’s important to make sure you clean them out of your smile. You may need to adjust how you brush to make sure you get all around the braces. Flossing can seem impossible with the wires, but using floss threaders can help ensure you get between your teeth. You may find using interdental brushes helpful in getting between the wires and brackets as well!
Keeping up with your oral hygiene routine can help ensure your smile stays healthy throughout your orthodontic journey.
What Can I Do to Manage Discomfort?
Even though you adjust your diet for this first week, having some metal in your mouth and shifting your teeth may leave you experiencing some discomfort. Thankfully, there are things you can do! While your gums will take some time to toughen up against the brackets, you may notice how they cause some irritation. Using some dental wax to cover them in places that are especially sensitive can help reduce any pain you feel.
Rinsing with salt water can help relieve some irritation as well. With a glass of warm water, add in a teaspoon of salt and swish it around for about 30 seconds, then spit it out! Taking some over-the-counter medication can be effective in giving you the relief you need.
As you get used to life with braces, remember these tips to make your first week easier for you! In no time, the discomfort will lessen, and you’ll finish up treatment with a new smile you feel confident in.
About the Practice
At Willow Bend Orthodontics of Plano, you benefit from a team of board-certified orthodontists. Dr. Tamara Jones and Dr. Stephanie Amerson are here to help you get the aligned teeth that not only look great but are beneficial for your oral health. They can answer any questions you have about getting adjusted to your braces to make the process easier for you. If you have crooked or crowded teeth, schedule an appointment or call (972) 732-1400.