What Summer Treats Are Safe For Braces?

For many of us, summertime means indulging in some of our favorite treats, whether it’s at a barbecue with friends or cooling off with a milkshake on a hot day. If you have braces in place, though, you might be feeling disappointed about certain dietary restrictions. Thankfully, there are so many amazing foods and beverages available this time of year that you’re sure to find some new choices that won’t hurt your dental gear. Continue reading to learn more about what to avoid and what to enjoy!

For many of us, summertime means indulging in some of our favorite treats, whether it’s at a barbecue with friends or cooling off with a milkshake on a hot day. If you have braces in place, though, you might be feeling disappointed about certain dietary restrictions. Thankfully, there are so many amazing foods and beverages available this time of year that you’re sure to find some new choices that won’t hurt your dental gear. Continue reading to learn more about what to avoid and what to enjoy!

4 Common Culprits To Avoid

Some foods should be avoided when you have braces because they are hard to bite and can harm the hardware. Other foods are likely to get stuck in the wires or brackets making plaque buildup more likely.  As tempted as you may be, if these items are on the menu then try to steer clear!

Hard Or Sticky Candy

Hard candies are difficult to bite into and can break the brittle metal of your braces, and sticky candies can get stuck or pull them apart. Not only that, but the sugary ingredients are more likely to get caught and attract harmful bacteria. 

Corn On The Cob

Unfortunately, biting down against the hard center of this summer staple can damage your orthodontics and the small kernels can easily get trapped. If you’re determined to have some anyway, try cutting it off the cob with a knife and then eating it with a fork.

Chips, Pretzels, and Popcorn

Often we turn to corn chips, pretzels, and popcorn as snacks or appetizers at gatherings with families or friends. Eating these kinds of hard foods is risky, though, because they can pop a wire or break a bracket. If you do indulge, remember to slowly chew one at a time.

Meat On The Bone

Though popular at barbecues and other gatherings, biting into meat on the bone can be hard on your braces. Also, try to keep away from large or tougher pieces of meat that are more difficult to chew, as this can loosen the bands.

Happy, Healthy Alternatives

With such variety available this time of year, it’s easy to find tasty alternatives that satisfy your cravings while leaving your braces intact! Some choices that are a better bet for your braces include:

• Ice cream sundaes
• Fresh fruit smoothies
• Milkshakes or malts
• Pasta or macaroni and cheese
• Potato salad
• Soft fruits like watermelon, grapes, or kiwis
• Muffins, soft cookies, or bread
• Greek yogurt
• Cheese
• Grilled or cooked vegetables

You can keep your orthodontic treatment on track by choosing foods that are safer for your braces. With so many options, you’re sure to find ways to enjoy your favorite flavors this season!

About the Practice

Sunrise Dental has served patients from the same location for over 35 years. With staff who are fluent in both English and Spanish, they provide high-quality care to patients and families from diverse backgrounds. Their dental team can work with you to find the best solution for your oral health care needs whether it’s preventative care, cosmetic dentistry, oral surgery, dental emergencies, or orthodontics. If you’d like to make an appointment, feel free to reach out to the office on the website or by calling (713) 869-9973.