When 15-year-old Riya walked out of her orthodontist’s clinic with her brand-new braces, she was excited about her future smile. But by the time she got home, the soreness in her mouth kicked in. She opened the fridge and stood there for minutes, wondering what she could possibly eat without feeling more discomfort. Riya’s story is just like millions of others around the world. According to the American Association of Orthodontists, nearly 4 million people in the U.S. wear braces, and many of them face this very dilemma on day one—what to eat the first day of braces?
If you or your child just got braces, you’re likely facing this same challenge. Eating the wrong food can lead to pain, damage to brackets, and even delays in your treatment. That’s why we created this comprehensive guide. With expert advice, patient-friendly suggestions, and a dentist-approved meal list, you’ll know exactly what to eat the first day of braces to stay comfortable and safe.
Let’s dive into the 12 best meals that dentists recommend for your very first day in braces.
1. Mashed Potatoes
Mashed potatoes are soft, smooth, and incredibly gentle on sore teeth. You can enjoy them warm with a bit of butter or cheese for added taste without hurting your mouth. This is one of the top answers to what to eat the first day of braces.
2. Yogurt Parfait
Go for plain or flavored yogurt with soft fruits like bananas. Skip the granola or nuts. The creamy texture is soothing and also provides protein and calcium, essential for strong teeth.
3. Oatmeal
Warm oatmeal is another comforting option. Add in some mashed bananas or applesauce for sweetness. Oatmeal is not just healthy—it’s also one of the safest choices when deciding what to eat the first day of braces.
4. Scrambled Eggs
Packed with protein and soft in texture, scrambled eggs can be a great breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Add a bit of cheese for extra flavor. Dentists often recommend eggs as a go-to meal when your teeth are sore.
5. Soup (Without Hard Ingredients)
Chicken broth, creamy tomato soup, or lentil soup are excellent options. Avoid chunky vegetables or hard meat. Soups are warm, easy to swallow, and rich in nutrients—making them ideal for what to eat the first day of braces.
6. Macaroni and Cheese
Soft pasta with creamy cheese sauce is both filling and gentle on your braces. Just make sure the pasta is fully cooked to avoid any chewing resistance.
7. Applesauce
If you’re craving something sweet, applesauce is a soft and easy treat. It’s one of the most recommended foods when thinking about what to eat the first day of braces.
8. Smoothies
Blending fruits, yogurt, and milk into a smoothie gives you nutrients without needing to chew. Avoid using fruits with seeds like strawberries, and don’t add ice cubes. Use a spoon instead of a straw to prevent pressure on your braces.
9. Soft Pancakes or Waffles
Fluffy pancakes are a delightful breakfast choice. Top with syrup or soft fruit. Skip crunchy edges or nuts. For those wondering what to eat the first day of braces, this meal is a sweet solution.
10. Steamed Vegetables
Cooked carrots, zucchini, or peas become very soft and are easy to chew. They’re perfect when you’re still adjusting to braces. Dentists say steamed veggies are safe and nutritious.
11. Rice or Risotto
Rice dishes like plain white rice, risotto, or khichdi (Indian soft rice with lentils) are gentle on your teeth and comforting to your stomach. It’s also a culturally versatile option.
12. Soft-Cooked Pasta with Sauce
A bowl of spaghetti or penne with marinara or alfredo sauce is not only delicious but also soft enough to enjoy without strain. This classic comfort food answers the question of what to eat the first day of braces perfectly.
Table: Nutritional Benefits of Recommended Meals
| Meal | Nutrients Provided | Comfort Level | Dentist Recommended |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mashed Potatoes | Carbohydrates, Fiber | High | Yes |
| Yogurt Parfait | Protein, Calcium | High | Yes |
| Oatmeal | Fiber, Iron, Magnesium | High | Yes |
| Scrambled Eggs | Protein, Vitamin D | High | Yes |
| Soup | Fluids, Vitamins | High | Yes |
| Macaroni and Cheese | Carbs, Protein, Calcium | High | Yes |
| Applesauce | Fiber, Vitamin C | High | Yes |
| Smoothies | Vitamins, Protein, Calcium | High | Yes |
| Pancakes or Waffles | Carbs, Iron | Medium | Yes |
| Steamed Vegetables | Vitamins, Minerals | High | Yes |
| Rice or Risotto | Carbs, Fiber, B vitamins | High | Yes |
| Pasta with Sauce | Carbs, Protein, Iron | High | Yes |
Expert Opinions and Data
According to Dr. Emily Watson, an orthodontist with over 15 years of experience, the first 24 to 48 hours after getting braces are the most crucial. “The teeth are adjusting to pressure, and the mouth is learning to function with brackets and wires. Eating soft, non-chewy, non-crunchy food reduces discomfort and protects the braces.”
In a 2021 study published in the Journal of Clinical Orthodontics, over 80 percent of new brace wearers reported soreness and chewing difficulty within the first day. However, 90 percent of those who followed a soft-food diet said it helped ease the transition.
Additional Tips for Eating with New Braces
- Avoid foods that are hard, crunchy, sticky, or chewy, like popcorn, nuts, gum, and caramel.
- Cut food into small pieces to minimize chewing pressure.
- Use the back teeth to chew gently.
- Drink plenty of water to keep your mouth clean and moist.
- Stick to lukewarm or cool foods to avoid heat sensitivity.
Why It’s Important to Choose the Right Foods
Eating the wrong foods can cause brackets to break or wires to bend. This not only causes discomfort but may also delay your treatment by weeks or even months. Following dentist-approved food guidelines ensures your braces stay intact and your mouth stays pain-free.
Conclusion
Starting your braces journey can feel overwhelming, especially when it comes to eating. But knowing what to eat the first day of braces makes all the difference. With the 12 dentist-approved meals shared above, you can nourish your body while keeping your new braces safe and your mouth comfortable. From mashed potatoes to smoothies, these foods provide relief, nutrition, and variety. So the next time you feel that first-day soreness setting in, you’ll know exactly what to reach for. What will your first braces-friendly meal be?
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5 FAQs on What to Eat the First Day of Braces
What should I avoid eating the first day of braces?
It’s best to avoid hard, crunchy, or sticky foods that can damage your braces, such as popcorn, chips, hard candies, nuts, and gum. Also, steer clear of chewy foods like caramel or taffy that can cause discomfort and possibly loosen the braces.
Stick to soft, gentle foods like mashed potatoes, scrambled eggs, and yogurt.
Avoid anything that requires a lot of chewing or could get stuck in your braces.
Can I eat hot food the first day of braces?
It’s recommended to avoid hot food on the first day of braces, as your mouth may be sensitive. Extremely hot foods can irritate the gums and increase discomfort. Stick to lukewarm or cool foods to stay comfortable.
Choose foods like lukewarm soup or cold smoothies.
Warm oatmeal is fine, as long as it isn’t too hot.
Are smoothies a good option for the first day of braces?
Yes, smoothies are an excellent choice for the first day of braces. They are soft, nutritious, and can be customized with ingredients like yogurt, soft fruits, and even protein powder. Just be sure to avoid using a straw, as the suction can put pressure on your braces.
Opt for smoothie combinations like banana, yogurt, and milk.
Make sure the smoothie is not too thick, so it’s easy to drink
How long will I have to eat soft foods after getting braces?
While the first day may be the most uncomfortable, it’s recommended to stick with soft foods for a few days to allow your mouth and braces to adjust. Most people can gradually return to eating harder foods after 3-4 days, but it varies depending on the individual’s comfort level.
Stick to soft foods for the first few days.
Listen to your body and transition to harder foods when you feel ready.
Is it okay to eat dairy products like cheese on the first day of braces?
Yes, dairy products like cheese and yogurt are excellent choices for the first day of braces. They are soft, easy to chew, and provide calcium, which is good for your teeth. Just make sure you avoid hard cheeses with sharp edges that could cause discomfort.
Go for soft cheeses like mozzarella or cream cheese.
Pair dairy with fruits or vegetables for a balanced meal.
Dr. Niraj Ghanghoriya is a passionate dental surgeon with over 12 years of experience in clinical dentistry. He completed his BDS from the prestigious Sri Aurobindo Institute of Dentistry in 2012 and specializes in painless root canals, smile makeovers, and preventive oral care. Known for his patient-first approach and clear communication, Dr. Ghanghoriya aims to make dental knowledge accessible to everyone. When he’s not in the clinic, he enjoys writing informative dental blogs to help people take better care of their oral health.
