Summer Snacks That Are Safe for Braces
Enjoying the season without compromising your smile
Summer is the season when people love to go on vacation and enjoy the sweeter things in life! However, while people undergoing orthodontic treatment can safely enjoy most summer fun, anyone with braces will know that they should be a little more careful about what they eat.
It is pretty common knowledge that people with braces should avoid foods that are hard or sticky, as they can get stuck in the brackets, leaving sugar on the teeth and causing tooth decay. Some of the worst foods to eat with braces include caramel, gum, and popcorn.
If you want to continue enjoying these sweet treats and sticky goodies, Invisalign may be the ideal orthodontic treatment for you, as you can take the aligners out when eating. If you do have braces, however, this doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy some of the best summer snacks still!
Here are a few sweet (and savory) summertime treats we’ve put together for your eating pleasure.
1. Fruits
Watermelon, bananas, blueberries, blackberries, raspberries, and ripe/soft fruit are fine to eat with braces. Plus, these fruits are perfect for cooling down on a sultry day or enjoying while on a picnic!
2. Seafood
Most types of seafood are perfectly fine to eat if you have braces, including fish, crab meat, lobster meat, and more. If you’re someone who craves fresh seafood in the summer, go ahead and indulge!
3. Ice Cream
Soft-serve ice cream is a braces-friendly option that allows you to indulge in the classic summer treat without worrying about damaging your braces. Unlike traditional hard ice cream, soft-serve is much gentler on braces and less likely to cause discomfort. Whether you prefer classic vanilla or adventurous flavors like mango or matcha, soft-serve ice cream is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth without compromising your smile.
4. Smoothies
Smoothies are another fantastic way to enjoy the flavors of summer while keeping your braces safe. Blend together a combination of fruits, such as berries, peaches, and pineapple, with some yogurt or milk for added creaminess. You can even sneak in some leafy greens like spinach or kale for an extra nutritional boost. Smoothies are not only delicious and braces-friendly but also a great way to stay hydrated during the hot summer months.
5. Milkshakes
Milkshakes are a quintessential summer treat, and the good news is that they can be enjoyed even with braces! Add your favorite flavors, such as chocolate, vanilla, or strawberry, along with a scoop of soft ice cream. You can also throw in some ripe bananas or peanut butter for extra creaminess and flavor. Just be sure to avoid any hard or crunchy toppings like nuts or candy that could potentially damage your braces.
Protect your smile this summer
Plenty of other foods can help you beat the heat and cool down without interfering with your braces. Just remember that some foods should be cut into smaller pieces. And, of course, don’t forget to follow daily tooth brushing and flossing guidelines to take care of your teeth while enjoying the summer!
