Have you just received your new braces or are you planning to start your orthodontic treatment soon? Well, when it comes to braces, there are certain things that need to be careful about during the time the treatment is ongoing. One of them is your diet and how you provide your body with the right nutrients to support your oral health in the best way possible. Transform your smile with Invisalign in Toronto, provided by the skilled professionals at Brookdale Dentistry who prioritize your oral health and aesthetic goals. Brookdale Dentistry proudly serves as your trusted family dentist in Toronto, offering comprehensive oral care for patients of all ages.
Fill Your Diet with Soft and Nutritious Foods
During this time, yoou need to become pickier about the types of foods that you consume. Some foods are more suitable than others and some of them you need to avoid. Conforming to lifestyle changes during the time you wear braces may be a bit challenging, but it’s certainly worth it when you think about the outcome, which is a straight, brilliant smile. In this article, we’ve provided the most essential tips on designing the best diet for you during your orthodontic treatment:
- Through the adjustment period: Braces can be a bit uncomfortable during the first days of starting your orthodontic journey. In this period, it’s essential that you pick foods that are soft and easy-to-chew. This ensures a smoother adjusting period, minimizing sensitivity and discomfort. Options like mashed potatoes, smoothies, steamed vegetables and yogurt can fuel your body with necessary nutrients for healthy teeth and gums.
- Proteins are essential for repair: Protein is the building block of teeth and the presence of it in your diet is important for your oral health. By incorporating lean proteins such as chicken, turkey, fish, eggs, tofu and legumes into your meals, you can make sure that you provide the nutrients that your teeth need to stay healthy.
- Calcium for strength: Calcium is the cornerstone of strong teeth and bones, making it indispensable during orthodontic treatments. Dairy products like milk, cheese, and yogurt can be the source of calcium and protein in your diet. You can also add leaf greens such as spinach and kale to your diet. If you have some dietary restrictions, you can use fortified plant-based milk alternatives to ensure a healthy diet for oral health and overall well-being.
- Go for soft fruits: Cut soft fruits like bananas, berries, melons, and oranges, as well as cooked or steamed vegetables such as carrots, squash, zucchini, and sweet potatoes into bite-sized pieces to enjoy a nutritious and braces-friendly part of your diet.
- Carbohydrates and energy: Use foods rich in carbohydrates like pasta, rice, quinoa and oatmeal to provide these essential energy resources. These are soft and easy to chew options that are both enjoyable and safe for your braces.
- Smoothies and soups: A very satisfying way of making things that are both interesting and suitable for your braces is to blend soft fruits, leafy greens, yogurt, and protein powder to create delicious and nutritious smoothies. Soups containing vegetables, beans and meats are also very enjoyable options.
- Snacks, fun and healthy: You can enjoy having snacks during your orthodontic treatment. Opt for braces-friendly snacks such as soft fruits, yogurt parfaits, hummus with vegetable sticks, and nut butter on whole-grain crackers. Avoid sticky and hard foods that can damage your braces and increase the risk of orthodontic complications.
- Stay hydrated: Providing enough water for your body and staying hydrated is a must for your health and it gets even more crucial during your orthodontic treatment. Drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep your mouth hydrated and facilitate the removal of food particles and bacteria. Avoid sugary and acidic beverages that can contribute to enamel erosion and dental decay.
- When you like to eat sweets: We all sometimes crave sweets, even those of us with braces! Sometimes ice cream, gelatin, pudding and smoothies can be good ideas to have some fun. Since these foods are soft, they won’t damage the brackets and wires and won’t lead to complications. But make sure you consume these goodies with moderation!
Foods to Avoid with Braces
There are some foods that can cause harm to your braces or lead to other complications. If you don’t take care of their braces properly, they might cause cavities or gum disease. It’s best to avoid consuming unsuitable foods while you are getting your teeth straight and stunning:
- Foods that stick to your teeth and chewy ones: Sticky foods can get stuck in your braces and it’s not that easy to remove them. Sticky candies like caramel, toffee, and gum are among these foods. When these things get stuck in your braces, it can increase the likelihood of plaque and tartar buildup on your teeth and around the brackets. You should also avoid chewy foods like gummy bears since they can damage the wires and brackets of your braces.
- Foods that are hard and crunchy: By eating hard foods, you put pressure on your braces, and this can break the brackets or change the placement of wires. Avoid foods such as nuts, popcorn, chips and hard candies as they can make you uncomfortable. If you want to eat meats that are hard to chew or fruits like apples and pears, make sure that you cut them into small pieces to prevent damaging your braces. In addition to these, avoid biting any hard objects such as ice, pens or fingernails. Plus, don’t try to open packages with your teeth.
- Foods containing sugars, acids and starch: While you’re wearing your braces, it’s essential to minimize the risk of cavities, especially in the area where brackets are placed. Sweet or acidic foods and beverages such as soda, fruit juices and sports drinks can result in cavities because bacteria have the tendency to use these substances to produce plaque. Starchy foods such as white bread and potato chips can also get stuck between your teeth and braces and increase the risk of plaque and tartar.
To wrap up…
Taking care of your body’s nutrition and choosing foods that are suitable for your braces plays a pivotal role in having a comfortable time with them and attaining the results that are ideal for you. Braces can offer you a straight smile, but they also need to be cared for carefully to prevent potential problems like cavities and gum disease. It’s important to consult with your dentist to receive a personalized plan that is tailored to your personal needs. Also, if you’re not sure if a certain food can be suitable for your orthodontic diet, ask your dentist. Brookdale Dentistry proudly holds the title of the best dentist in North Toronto, delivering outstanding dental care with a focus on patient comfort and well-being.
Brookdale Dentistry is your comprehensive destination for top-quality dental services at affordable prices. From essential procedures like root canal treatments, dental veneers, and tooth extraction to advanced treatments such as dental implants and Invisalign, we offer a wide array of services to cater to your dental needs.
Our commitment extends to pediatric dentistry, ensuring a friendly and comfortable experience for your little ones. Whether you’re in need of dentures, dental bridges, or crowns, our skilled professionals provide expert care to restore and enhance your smile.
At Brookdale Dentistry, we also specialize in gum grafting, jaw surgery, and effective gum disease treatments to maintain optimal oral health. Additionally, our teeth whitening services add a bright touch to your smile, leaving you with a confident and radiant appearance. Trust in our dedication to delivering excellence in every aspect of dental care. No matter the procedure, Brookdale Dentistry strives to provide high-quality services with affordability in mind, making your dental health a top priority.
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Starting Your Orthodontic Treatment in Toronto
Amirad Dentistry welcomes you for your orthodontic treatment provided by highly skilled orthodontists who possess profound experience in orthodontic treatments. We use the highest quality materials to make sure everything goes perfectly with your treatment. We strive to create a top-notch and comfortable dental experience for you in the heart of Toronto. You can contact us to receive guidance on starting the journey of braces and discuss your case with us. We’ll make your experience of wearing braces a smooth and easy one, providing you with complete education and the best tips on how to take care of them, building your way up to a perfect smile.
