Getting braces is a big step towards a straighter smile! But it also means making some short-term changes to what you eat to protect your new hardware and keep your mouth healthy. The first week after getting braces is usually the toughest, so focusing on soft foods is key.
This article will walk you through what to eat — and what not to eat — during that first week. We’ll give you practical tips to make the transition as smooth and comfortable as possible. We’ll cover the best soft food choices, foods you should approach with caution, foods to avoid altogether, and some must-know tips for keeping your mouth clean.
Understanding the initial discomfort and dietary needs
The first week after your braces go on is often the most uncomfortable, as that’s when your mouth is getting used to the pressure of the brackets and wires. You’re also learning to navigate life with these new appliances in your mouth.
During this time, it’s especially important to eat soft foods, as this will minimize discomfort and allow your mouth to adapt. It will also help you protect your new braces.
Why the first week matters
The dietary adjustments you make during the first week, and throughout your time with braces, are crucial for preventing damage to the brackets and wires. You’ll want to avoid hard, sticky, or otherwise difficult-to-bite foods so your braces can do their job.
Following a good eating plan with braces can lead to a better orthodontic outcome.
What to eat the first week with braces
Getting braces can be a bit of an adjustment, and you may find it more comfortable to eat softer foods for the first week or so. Here are some ideas for what to eat when you first get your braces.
Breakfast options
When you’re looking for something soft and easy to eat, oatmeal is a great choice. It’s gentle on your mouth and easy to swallow. Yogurt is also a good option, providing key nutrients with minimal chewing.
Scrambled eggs are another protein-rich choice that’s easy to eat. Smoothies are a good way to get your fruits and veggies without having to chew.
Lunch and dinner choices
Creamy or broth-based soups are soothing and require no chewing. If you’re experiencing temperature sensitivity, avoid soups that are too hot.
Soft-cooked pasta with a mild sauce is another good option. Flaky fish, like cod or salmon, is a good source of protein and requires very little chewing.
Snack ideas
Bananas are soft, nutritious, and easy to eat. Soft, peeled pears are another good choice. Yogurt is a good snack anytime. String cheese is easy to eat, too. Just be sure to cut it into smaller pieces.
Foods to approach with caution
Even soft foods might be painful at first. Here are some other textures that can cause problems during the first week:
- Chewy foods: Chewy breads, meats, and even some candies can pull at your brackets and cause pain. If you want to try them, cut them into small pieces and chew slowly and carefully.
- Tough foods: Your mouth needs time to adjust to your braces. Start with soft foods, but gradually add regular foods as you heal.
Most importantly, listen to your body. If something hurts, don’t eat it.
Foods to avoid during the first week (and beyond)
Once your braces are on, there are some foods you’ll need to avoid while you’re undergoing treatment. Here are some of the most common:
Hard and crunchy foods
Hard candy, nuts, popcorn, hard pretzels, and even crunchy fruits and vegetables can damage your brackets and wires, so it’s best to avoid them.
That means you’ll want to stay away from apples, carrots, and other raw, crunchy produce. You’ll also need to avoid ice, popcorn, hard nuts, gummies, and sticky candies.
Sticky and chewy foods
Sticky candy, caramel, and chewing gum can get stuck in your braces and be difficult to clean, which can lead to tooth decay. It’s best to sidestep sticky foods altogether while you have braces.
That means you’ll want to avoid chewy snacks, bagels and hard bread, and pizza crusts, especially the hard edges.
Other considerations
Braces can make your teeth more sensitive to temperature. If that’s the case for you, you may want to limit hot soups and other foods that are either very hot or very cold.
Tips for Eating with Braces
The first week with braces can be challenging, but these tips can help make it easier:
- Cut food into small pieces: Smaller pieces are easier to manage and require less chewing.
- Chew gently and slowly: Take your time and be mindful of the pressure on your teeth and braces.
- Maintain good oral hygiene: Rinse your mouth after eating to dislodge food. Brush three times a day (but wait 30 minutes after eating). A travel toothbrush or water flosser can be helpful for cleaning on the go.
- Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water to help flush out food particles and keep your mouth moist.
- Use orthodontic wax: Apply wax to any brackets that are irritating your mouth to prevent rubbing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I eat pizza on the first day of braces?
Probably not the best idea right away. The crust can be too hard and chewy, and the cheese can be difficult to get off your braces. Stick to softer foods for the first few days and maybe try pizza later in the week if your mouth is feeling better, cut into small, bite-sized pieces.
What not to drink with braces the first week?
Avoid sugary drinks like soda and juice, as they can contribute to plaque buildup and tooth decay around your braces. Also, steer clear of dark-colored drinks like coffee, tea, and red wine, as they can stain your brackets and elastics. Water is always your best bet!
What fast food can I eat with braces the first week?
Soft items like mashed potatoes, mac and cheese, or a soft burger without any hard toppings are generally safe bets. Avoid anything that requires a lot of chewing or could get stuck in your braces. If you’re getting a burger, remove any lettuce, tomato, or onion.
How long until I can eat “normal” food with braces?
It varies from person to person, but most people start to feel more comfortable eating a wider range of foods after about a week or two. Listen to your body, and gradually reintroduce harder foods as your teeth become less sensitive. You’ll still need to avoid certain foods throughout your treatment, like sticky candies and hard nuts.
Final Thoughts
Changing your diet in the first week after getting braces is essential to your comfort, to protecting your new hardware, and to making sure your teeth move in the way your orthodontist planned.
If you have any questions or concerns about eating with braces, be sure to talk with your orthodontist. You should always follow their specific instructions and personalized dietary advice.