Getting orthodontic braces begins the process of aligning teeth and correcting the bite. Afterward, the mouth and teeth will feel sensitive due to the new pressure from the wires and brackets. This initial discomfort requires adjusting your diet temporarily to protect the new appliance and allow the mouth to heal. Knowing the timing and specific food choices ensures a smoother transition into life with braces.
The Initial Waiting Period
The adhesive used to secure the brackets cures rapidly but needs time to achieve initial stability. Most orthodontists advise waiting at least an hour or two after the application appointment before attempting to eat anything substantial. The adhesive generally takes up to 24 hours to fully set and reach maximum strength, meaning caution is warranted during this full day.
The initial sensation of having braces feels strange, and the teeth may be tender to the touch. While you can eat immediately after leaving the office, focus on soft, non-damaging foods. Initial soreness often begins a few hours after the appointment and may last up to a week as the teeth respond to the gentle pressure.
Diet Guidelines for the First Week
The first five to seven days are the most challenging period, as the teeth are sensitive to pressure from the activated archwires. This initial tenderness requires a diet composed almost entirely of soft foods that require minimal chewing force.
Soft Food Choices
Ideal choices include liquids and semi-solids such as soft cheeses, yogurt, mashed potatoes, scrambled eggs, and smoothies. Soft pasta dishes, soup, and tender, cooked vegetables also provide necessary nutrition without stressing the teeth.
When eating, cut food into very small, manageable pieces to minimize the amount of biting needed. Chewing should be done gently and primarily with the back teeth, avoiding the sensitive front teeth that are under the most pressure. Extreme heat or cold can increase discomfort, so lukewarm or room-temperature items are often better tolerated.
Managing Discomfort
To manage discomfort, over-the-counter pain relievers can be taken before the soreness begins for maximum effectiveness. New braces can cause minor abrasions on the cheeks and gums. Applying orthodontic wax over irritating brackets creates a smoother surface for soft tissues to heal. Rinsing the mouth with warm salt water can also help soothe any gum or mouth sores.
Foods to Avoid While Wearing Braces
Long-term dietary restrictions are necessary throughout the entire treatment period to protect the orthodontic hardware from damage.
Hard Foods
Hard foods pose a risk because the force required to break them can crack or knock a bracket loose or bend the archwire. This category includes items such as ice, nuts, hard candies, popcorn kernels, and hard pretzels. Damaged components often necessitate an emergency visit, which can delay the overall treatment timeline.
Sticky and Chewy Foods
Sticky and chewy foods are problematic because they can adhere tightly to the appliance, pulling brackets off or dislodging wires. Examples include caramels, taffy, chewing gum, and sticky fruit snacks. These items can also easily trap food particles and sugar against the teeth, increasing the risk of plaque buildup and tooth decay around the brackets.
Foods Requiring Front Biting
Foods that require biting into with the front teeth put excessive force on the brackets. Raw vegetables like carrots or whole apples, crusty breads, and corn on the cob should be altered before consumption. It is recommended to cut these foods into small, bite-sized pieces and cook vegetables until they are tender to prevent accidental breakage.