Summertime fun is quickly approaching! There are so many wonderful moments to enjoy with your family and friends, such as backyard barbeques, days on the beach, and overseas travel. And the one thing you can count on at all these special events is delicious food! However, if you wear braces, you may feel there aren’t a lot of options for you. The truth is that there are many summer foods you can eat as you straighten your teeth. Here are some of the best choices, as well as ones to steer clear of.
What are some Braces-Friendly Summer Foods?
The good news is that you don’t have to miss out on any summer food fun while you are getting orthodontic treatment. Some of the most popular options are:
- Chili
- Deviled eggs
- Hot dogs (you may need to use a fork!)
- French fries
- Macaroni salad
- Cooked or barbequed vegetables, like asparagus and zucchini
- Mashed potatoes
- Beans
- Pudding
- Jell-o
- Ice Cream
Summer Foods to Avoid while Wearing Braces
Even though you can enjoy a wide variety of foods during your summer activities, there are some ones to avoid as they can cause damage to your braces. You want to keep your treatment plan on track so being mindful of the foods that can wreak havoc on your orthodontics is essential. Avoid these most common summer foods:
- Raw veggies, like carrots and celery
- Crunchy treats, such as corn chips and popcorn
- Chewy meats (steak, BBQ ribs, etc.)
- Whole fruits
- Sticky and hard candies
What to Do If You Experience an Orthodontic Emergency
The first thing to do is remain calm. If you happen to have difficulty breathing or can’t control bleeding in your mouth, be sure to call 9-1-1 or head to your nearest emergency room to receive immediate attention. If your orthodontic emergency is not as dire, like a broken wire or bracket, you can call your orthodontist to schedule an immediate appointment. They will help address the issue with your braces and get your treatment back on track.
While you do need to steer clear of some summer foods, there are so many to enjoy as you spend quality time with loved ones. By sticking with the following tips, your aligned smile will arrive before you know it!
About the Author
Dr.Gary Chaffee and his team at Paraiso Family Dental & Orthodontics are eager to help you achieve the smile of your dreams! He graduated from the Loma Linda University School of Dentistry and is an active member of several dental associations, including the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry. With the goal of providing excellent care, he offers a wide range of dental and orthodontic services, including traditional braces. To schedule an appointment, contact him through his website or call (805) 480-0033.