A beautiful, healthy smile can be achieved by getting braces. However, the adjustment period that follows can be challenging, especially when it comes to your meals. When braces-wearers can eat solid foods again, this is a significant concern.
Braces work by gradually shifting your teeth into the ideal position. During this time, your orthodontist in Prince Albert will adjust the braces on your teeth regularly. This movement may cause pain, sensitivity, and discomfort, making eating tough and crunchy meals challenging.
Here is some valuable information for you to keep in mind to help you adjust to your new braces:
The Initial Days
You need to give yourself time to get used to braces. For the first few days, stick to a soft diet to avoid causing yourself or your braces any pain. Soft foods are simple to chew and will not harm or put too much strain on your braces. Following are some suitable choices for this initial phase:
- Soup
- Mashed potatoes
- Yogurt
- Pudding
- Smoothies
- Oatmeal
Gradual Transition to Solid Foods
After the initial discomfort has subsided, you can resume eating solid foods. Adjusting to this change typically takes a few weeks for various individuals. You’ll be ready to try solid things when you can chew without pain or discomfort. Here are some suggestions to help you get through this change:
Cut Foods into Small Pieces
When you return to eating solid foods, cut them into tiny pieces that are easier to swallow. Chewing will become more straightforward, and you won’t have to put as much pressure on your braces.
Avoid Hard and Sticky Foods
Your braces are susceptible to damage from sticky and hard foods such as caramel and gum, as well as popcorn and nuts. It’s best to steer clear of these items throughout your orthodontic treatment.
Brush and Floss Regularly
Good oral hygiene is essential with braces. To avoid food particles becoming lodged in your braces and creating irritation, brush and floss after every meal.
Orthodontic Wax
Always have some orthodontic wax on hand. If you encounter discomfort when eating from wires or brackets, adding wax can help provide relief.
Regular Orthodontic Checkups
Attending all of your scheduled orthodontic appointments is essential throughout this time. Your dentist in Prince Albert can evaluate your treatment progress and make any required modifications to your braces. Based on your specific situation, they may offer personalized recommendations on whether it is appropriate to restart eating various solid meals.
Resuming a regular diet with solid meals after receiving braces is a slow process influenced by various conditions. While it may take some time to enjoy your favourite crunchy snacks or difficult-to-chew foods thoroughly, following your orthodontist’s recommendations and being patient during the adjustment phase is essential. Ultimately, the beautiful smile that braces help you achieve will make it all worthwhile.
Remember that good oral hygiene is still essential during orthodontic treatment. Brush and floss regularly to keep food particles from being stuck in your braces, which can lead to oral health issues such as cavities and gum disease.
Visit Us to Get Personalized Dental Recommendations
At Prairie Pine Dental, we recognize the special dietary needs of our orthodontic patients. Our skilled dentists near you will be able to give recommendations to make your orthodontic journey go more smoothly. Whether you’re in the initial phases, transitioning to solid foods, or looking for maintenance recommendations, we’ve got you covered.
Visit us today, and let us help you navigate this process as smoothly as possible. Maintain your beautiful smile and confidently enjoy your favourite foods throughout your orthodontic treatment. Call or email today!