Summer Foods to Enjoy (and Avoid) While Wearing Braces

Whether you find yourself wearing braces this summer or not, it’s quite common for many individuals to begin orthodontic treatment during these months. However, it’s crucial to prepare for more than just the appearance of “metal mouth” in your vacation photos. When you have brackets and wires on your teeth, there are certain summer foods you should refrain from consuming to avoid any hindrance in your smile-straightening journey. Continue reading to learn about what summer foods to eat and which ones you should avoid.

Summer Foods Braces Can Enjoy

Before discussing the restrictions, it’s important to note that many summer foods are actually braces-friendly. These delightful treats not only taste great but also won’t interfere with your orthodontic treatment. The best part? They’re readily available, making them perfect for enjoying during your summer adventures. Without further ado, here are some of the most common braces-friendly summer foods to relish:

• Macaroni Salad & Other Pastas
• Cooked or Grilled Veggies
• Various Chilis
• Deviled Eggs
• French Fries
• Ice Cream
• Pudding
• Beans

Summer Foods Braces Should Avoid

While wearing braces, it’s important to be mindful of certain summer staples that should be avoided. Specifically, it’s best to refrain from consuming:

• Hard Fruits & Veggies – Although fruits and vegetables are generally healthy, it’s important to avoid consuming hard varieties when you have braces. Biting into these foods can potentially dislodge brackets and bend wires. Additionally, consuming such foods could lead to braces damage and necessitate a visit to the orthodontist’s office.
• Tough or Bone-In Meats – Summer cookouts and BBQs are beloved traditions for many families, but they can pose challenges for individuals with braces. Several bone-in meats served at these gatherings, such as pork ribs, chicken wings, and turkey legs, are tough and can loosen your braces’ bands. Additionally, some foods can easily become lodged in brackets or the spaces between your teeth.
• Sticky Sweets – While summer vacation often involves indulging in sticky candies, having braces can make this option less enticing. Sticky and chewy sweets have a tendency to adhere to brackets and wires, making them difficult to remove. Consequently, it is advisable to steer clear of treats such as taffy, caramel, toffee, and licorice. Instead, opt for safer options, like plain chocolate or fudge.

Undoubtedly, wearing braces during the summer necessitates some adjustments to your diet. Nevertheless, it’s important to keep in mind that there are still plenty of seasonal treats you can enjoy while working towards a straighter smile!

About the Practice

At Bear Creek Family Dentistry, we prioritize a preventive approach to oral health. However, when necessary, our skilled dentists are equipped with the training and expertise to provide effective treatment for periodontal disease, including orthodontic services like braces to straighten misaligned teeth. With six conveniently located offices in Mesquite, Grapevine, Dallas, Duncanville, Arlington, and Fort Worth, we ensure easy accessibility to exceptional dental services regardless of your location. If you are experiencing gum irritation or wish to schedule an appointment with Bear Creek Family Dentistry, visit their website for more information and their office phone numbers.