Maintaining a balanced diet while having braces can feel tricky, but it’s key to supporting oral health and achieving the best orthodontic results. The challenge is finding snacks that are both nutritious and brace-friendly, without risking damage to the brackets or wires. Here are some tasty and healthy snacks perfect for anyone wearing braces.
1. Soft Fruits
Crunchy apples and hard pears are out, but there’s no shortage of delicious fruits to enjoy!
- Examples: Bananas, grapes, berries (blueberries, strawberries), melon, kiwi
- Why They’re Great: Soft fruits are packed with vitamins and are easy to eat without putting pressure on brackets.
2. Smoothies
Blending fruits and veggies into smoothies is a nutritious way to snack without risking brace damage.
- Customise It: Add your favourite soft fruits, yogurt, or milk for a calcium boost.
- Tip: Avoid adding seeds from fruits like raspberries, as they can get stuck in braces.
3. Yogurt and Soft Cheeses
Dairy products provide calcium to strengthen your teeth during orthodontic treatment.
- Examples: Greek yogurt, cottage cheese, ricotta, soft cheese slices
- Why They’re Great: These snacks are smooth and require no chewing, making them ideal for braces wearers.
4. Soft Veggies
While raw carrots and celery are off-limits, there are plenty of ways to enjoy your veggies.
- Examples: Steamed carrots, mashed sweet potatoes, avocado, cucumbers
- Why They’re Great: Steaming vegetables softens them enough to eat without harming braces while still delivering essential vitamins and fibre.
5. Protein-Rich Snacks
Protein is vital for growth, especially for younger patients still developing. Here are some soft and easy-to-eat options:
- Examples: Scrambled eggs, hummus with soft pita, soft-cooked chicken or turkey, tofu
- Why They’re Great: Protein helps repair tissues and supports healthy development, all while being gentle on braces.
6. Whole Grains
Whole grains provide lasting energy and essential nutrients like fibre.
- Examples: Oatmeal, soft-cooked quinoa, whole-grain pasta
- Why They’re Great: These grains are soft and easy to eat, offering a nutritious base for meals or snacks.
7. Nut Butters
Nut butters, like peanut or almond butter, are a perfect way to get healthy fats and proteins without the risk of hard nuts damaging your braces.
- Pair With: Soft bread, banana slices, or rice cakes (as long as they’re soft enough).
- Tip: Always check for seeds or crunchy bits that might hide in nut butters!
What to Avoid
To keep your treatment on track, avoid the following:
- Sticky foods: Caramel, toffees, or anything that could pull on your braces
- Hard snacks: Popcorn, nuts, raw carrots, or crunchy chips
- Chewy foods: Bagels, licorice, or anything tough on your brackets
Broadbeach Orthodontics: Snack Smarter with Braces
At Broadbeach Orthodontics, we’re dedicated to supporting you through your orthodontic journey with tips that make treatment easier. We always put you and your family first, ensuring your braces experience is as smooth as possible. If you need more advice on braces care, we’re here to help!
