Getting braces is an exciting step toward a beautiful smile, but the first week can bring a bit of minor discomfort as your mouth adjusts. It’s common to feel tenderness in your teeth and gums, making eating a challenge. Choosing the right foods during this period can make a big difference in your comfort and oral health.
This blog will help you understand what to eat with braces during the first week, why soft foods are your best friend, and how to avoid anything that could delay your orthodontic treatment. Let’s walk through your braces-friendly food guide for a smooth and delicious start.
Why the First Week of Braces Feels a Bit Tender
Why the First Week of Braces Feels a Bit TenderIn the first week of braces, your teeth are just beginning their slow and steady shift into proper alignment. The brackets and wires apply pressure that helps move your teeth into place, and this pressure can lead to soreness.
Your gums, mouth, and cheeks also need to adapt to the new hardware, which may cause mild irritation. That’s why your diet during this time plays a crucial role, not just for comfort but also to avoid damaging your braces.
Stick to Soft Foods: Your Mouth Will Thank You
When it comes to what to eat with braces the first week, soft is the golden rule. Soft foods are gentle on your teeth and don’t require much chewing, which reduces discomfort and prevents unnecessary strain on your brackets.
Here are some soft favourites to include in your meals:
1. Mashed Potatoes
Creamy and comforting, mashed potatoes are easy to chew and filling. You can even add a bit of melted cheese for flavour.
2. Scrambled Eggs
Scrambled eggs are high in protein and fluffy in texture, making them a perfect breakfast or light meal option.
3. Yoghurt and Smoothies
Cold, smooth, and soothing, yoghurt and fruit smoothies are packed with nutrients and feel great against a sore mouth. Just skip the crunchy snacks or seeds.
4. Pasta
Soft pasta like macaroni, ravioli, or well-cooked spaghetti slides down easily and can be combined with mild sauces for a delicious meal.
5. Ice Cream (Yes, You Can!)
Many wonder, can you eat ice cream with braces? The answer is yes, as long as it doesn’t contain hard mix-ins like nuts or chewy candy. A small amount can even help soothe soreness.
6. Soups and Broths
Warm soups and hearty broths are excellent for lunch or dinner. They’re comforting and easy to eat, especially if you include soft-cooked vegetables and small noodles.
The Best Foods to Eat with Braces the First Week
Need meal ideas? Here’s a go-to list of braces-friendly foods to help you plan:
- Oatmeal or porridge
- Soft-cooked rice
- Avocados
- Cottage cheese
- Soft fruits like bananas or ripe peaches
- Steamed vegetables
- Applesauce (instead of biting into whole apples)
- Soft tofu
- Pudding or custard
These foods are gentle on braces and support your oral health while your mouth heals.
Foods to Avoid During the First Week
While it might be tempting to go back to your favourite meals right away, certain items can cause damage to your braces or worsen discomfort. During your first week of braces, try to steer clear of:
- Crunchy snacks: Chips, pretzels, and raw carrots can dislodge brackets or wires.
- Sticky or chewy foods: Caramels, toffees, and chewing gum can cling to your braces and are hard to remove.
- Hard or chewy bread: Chewy bread and crusty rolls can pull on brackets.
- Pizza crust: The firm outer edges can be tough to bite into and risky for your braces.
- Whole apples or corn on the cob: Bite-sized pieces are fine, but biting directly into these can damage your hardware.
- Popcorn: Tiny kernels can get lodged in your braces and irritate your gums.
Don’t Forget Hydration and Hygiene
Alongside choosing the right foods, staying hydrated and keeping your mouth clean are essential during the first week of wearing braces. Water helps rinse food debris from brackets, and proper brushing keeps tooth decay at bay.
Tips to keep in mind:
- Rinse your mouth after every meal.
- Use an orthodontic toothbrush and interdental brushes to clean between brackets.
- Avoid sugary drinks like soft drinks or juice that can damage enamel.
Listen to Your Mouth
Everyone’s experience is a little different. If certain foods or meals feel too hard to manage, stick to gentler options. As the discomfort subsides, you’ll gradually be able to expand your diet and enjoy more variety.
Making Meals Enjoyable Despite Braces
Just because your diet is limited doesn’t mean it has to be boring. Here are a few meal ideas for inspiration:
Braces-Friendly Meal Plan (Day Sample)
Breakfast: Scrambled eggs with soft avocado and a glass of milk
Snack: Banana or a small bowl of yoghurt
Lunch: Creamy pumpkin soup with soft bread (no crusts)
Snack: A small scoop of vanilla ice cream
Dinner: Soft pasta with cheese and steamed carrots
By the end of your first week, your mouth will start adjusting, and your appetite will likely return to normal.
Transitioning to Normal Eating After the First Week
Once the initial tenderness subsides, you can begin reintroducing slightly firmer foods. Continue cutting fruits into smaller pieces and chewing slowly. Even then, it’s still best to avoid anything hard, crunchy, or sticky throughout your orthodontic treatment.
You’ll have plenty of time to enjoy crunchy snacks and pizza crust once your perfect smile is fully achieved.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I eat rice in the first week of braces?
Yes, soft-cooked rice is an ideal choice.
Is it okay to eat ice cream with braces?
Absolutely, just avoid any with nuts, caramel, or crunchy bits.
How soon can I eat normally after getting braces?
Most people return to a semi-normal diet within 5 to 7 days, avoiding risky foods until treatment is complete.
Do I have to eat only soft foods forever?
No, only during the early adjustment period or after tightening appointments.
Is chewing gum safe with braces?
No, it’s best avoided as it can get stuck in your braces and damage them.
Final Thoughts: Eat Smart and Smile Bright
The first week of getting braces is a crucial time for adjustment. Choosing the right foods will not only reduce minor discomfort but also help protect your brackets and wires, setting you up for success in your journey toward a beautiful smile.
Think of it as a short pause on some of your favourite foods in exchange for a lifetime of confidence and better oral health. Book an appointment with Dental 266 at 02 9051 0600 to get professional guidance and make your braces journey as smooth and successful as possible.
References
Cleveland Clinic. (n.d.). Teeth braces. Retrieved from https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/24601-teeth-braces
Colgate. (n.d.). What is good oral hygiene? Retrieved from https://www.colgate.com/en-us/oral-health/adult-oral-care/what-is-good-oral-hygiene
American Association of Orthodontists. (2023, January 26). What can I eat with braces? A comprehensive guide. Retrieved from https://aaoinfo.org/blog/what-can-i-eat-with-braces/
