Getting braces is a huge leap towards a healthier smile, but they do cause a little discomfort, particularly after they are initially fitted or adjusted. For a lot of individuals, this pain hinders them from eating as comfortably as usual. Nevertheless, it is never advisable to miss meals. Your body requires energy, particularly when undergoing orthodontic treatment.
If you have dental braces and are finding it difficult to eat due to the pain, here are some easy, useful ways to cope with it.
What to Eat When You Have Dental Braces?
Stick to Soft Foods That Are Easy to Chew
One of the easiest ways to manage pain from braces is by eating soft foods. These don’t require much chewing and are gentle on sore teeth.
Here are a few good choices:
- Mashed potatoes
- Soft-cooked pasta
- Scrambled eggs
- Yogurt
- Smoothies
- Applesauce
- Cooked rice
- Soups (warm, not too hot)
These foods will keep you feeling full and prevent pressing sensitive teeth.
Cut Food Into Small Pieces
Soft foods can be hard to eat if they are too large. Make an effort to cut your food into small bites. That way, you don’t have to bite hard or apply too much pressure using your front teeth. It can make eating much easier when your mouth hurts.
Try Cold Foods and Drinks
Cold reduces both swelling and pain. Sipping cold water or eating cold snacks such as smoothies, frozen yogurt, or sugar-free popsicles can provide your mouth with a rest. Just do not chew ice—it can damage your braces or break them.
Use Warm Salt Water Rinses
Warm saltwater mouth rinse can help calm tender gums and relieve soreness from tight wires or brackets chafing the inside of your cheeks. Simply combine half a teaspoon of salt with warm water in a glass. Swish gently and spit it out. Repeat two or three times a day if your mouth is sore.
Apply Dental Wax on Brackets That Rub
If certain parts of your dental braces are rubbing on your cheeks or lips, you can use orthodontic wax. It helps cover the sharp edges and makes things feel smoother. You can pick it up at your orthodontist’s office or at most drugstores.
Avoid Foods That Are Too Hard or Crunchy
When your mouth is already sore, crunchy or hard foods can make it worse. They can also damage your braces. Stay away from:
- Chips
- Raw carrots
- Nuts
- Hard bread or crusty pizza
- Sticky candy
Stick to foods that are gentle until your mouth feels better.
Don’t Skip Meals
You might feel like avoiding food when your mouth hurts, but your body needs energy to heal and stay strong. If eating a full meal feels like too much, try eating smaller meals more often throughout the day.
Even a smoothie or soft sandwich can keep you going and help prevent headaches or low energy.
Talk to Your Orthodontist If the Braces Pain Lasts
Some discomfort is normal, especially during the first few days after getting braces or an adjustment. But if the pain doesn’t get better after a few days or gets worse, it’s a good idea to call your orthodontist.
Our team at Dallas Orthodontics is always ready to check things and make sure your treatment is on track.
Final Thoughts on Eating With Braces
Pain from braces can be annoying, but it shouldn’t stop you from eating. With a few small changes, like eating soft foods, taking smaller bites, and rinsing your mouth with warm salt water, you can stay comfortable and well-fed. The discomfort is only temporary, and the results are worth it.
If you have questions about dental braces or need help managing soreness, reach out to Dallas Orthodontics or schedule an appointment. We’re here to support you every step of the way.
