Orthodontic treatment is a long process aimed at correcting misalignments in the teeth and jaw. One of the most important aspects of this process is dietary habits. After getting braces, some foods can be difficult to eat or may damage the braces. Therefore, the question “What to Eat During Orthodontic Treatment?” is crucial for both the success of the treatment and the comfort of the patient.
In this article, we have prepared a comprehensive guide for beginners in orthodontic treatment or those struggling with eating.
Orthodontic treatment is a specialized dental procedure that aligns the teeth and jaw structure properly. This ensures not only a more aesthetic smile but also improved functions such as chewing and speaking.
Orthodontic treatment addresses issues such as crowded teeth, gaps, or misaligned jaws. Teeth are gradually moved into the desired position using metal, ceramic, or clear aligners (like Invisalign). However, some lifestyle changes may be necessary during this process, the most important of which is dietary habits.
At this point, the question arises: What to Eat During Orthodontic Treatment?
Although the answer varies depending on the type of treatment and the patient’s dental structure, in general, soft, fibrous foods that do not harm braces are recommended.
Braces, brackets, and wires create a sensitive structure inside the mouth. Hard or sticky foods can damage these structures. Poor nutrition can also make oral hygiene more difficult, leading to tooth decay and gum problems.
Therefore, the answer to “What to Eat During Orthodontic Treatment?” is directly related not only to eating comfortably but also to treatment success.
Proper nutrition provides these advantages:
In short, during orthodontic treatment, how you eat is as important as what you eat. Eating in small bites and chewing carefully contributes significantly to the treatment.
For beginners, the first few days can be quite sensitive. After getting braces, pressure and pain may be felt in the teeth. During this period, soft foods that are easy to chew and neither too hot nor too cold should be preferred.
Some foods recommended for the first days include:
Eating these types of foods in the first days helps reduce pain and minimizes the risk of damaging braces.
Even in later stages of treatment, soft and tooth-friendly foods should be preferred. Hard, sticky, or crunchy foods can loosen brackets, bend wires, and prolong treatment.
Examples of soft foods suitable during orthodontic treatment include:
These foods ensure proper nutrition while protecting braces. They are among the healthiest answers to the question “What to Eat During Orthodontic Treatment?”
One of the most common mistakes during orthodontic treatment is consuming prohibited foods. Some foods can seriously damage braces and extend the treatment period.
Avoiding certain foods is as important as knowing what to eat.
Foods to avoid:
Avoiding these foods prolongs the life of braces and protects oral health.
After getting braces or when wires are tightened, mild pain can occur. Choosing the right foods during this period can reduce discomfort.
Foods that can help relieve braces pain include:
These foods provide nutrition while reducing pressure and discomfort in the teeth.
Orthodontic treatment requires patience and care. Developing proper eating habits during this process protects dental health and ensures successful results.
Eating soft, fibrous, and tooth-friendly foods shortens treatment time and increases comfort. Avoiding hard, sticky, or acidic foods prevents damage to brackets.
In short, every correct answer to “What to Eat During Orthodontic Treatment?” directly affects your treatment. Conscious eating can help you achieve a healthy smile and make the treatment process more enjoyable.
You can contact us here to learn more about Cosmetic Dentistry, Dental Crown, Dental Implant and General Dentistry to make an appointment and to get information about our services.
In the first few days, when teeth are sensitive, only soft foods should be consumed. In the following weeks, hard foods can be eaten carefully, but primarily soft, tooth-friendly foods should be preferred to enhance treatment success.
No. Gum sticks to braces and can cause brackets to come off. Sticky foods are not part of recommended foods during orthodontic treatment.
Yes, but hard fruits should be cut into small pieces or consumed as puree or smoothies. Soft fruits like banana and avocado are especially recommended.
Cold and warm foods reduce sensitivity caused by braces. For example: ice cream, yogurt, warm vegetable soups, mashed potatoes, and oatmeal provide comfort.
Hard foods should be limited during treatment. Hard fruits and vegetables, like apples and carrots, can be eaten in small bites or boiled. However, completely raw and hard foods can damage brackets.
Special Note:
Our treatments are provided by healthcare facilities that possess a health tourism authorization certificate
Special Note: Our treatments are provided by healthcare facilities that possess a health tourism authorization certificate
Selenium Retro, Ataköy 7-8-9-10. Kısım, D-100 Güney Yanyolu No:18/A, 34158 Bakırköy/İstanbul
© 2025, LYGOS DENTAL. All Rights Reserved.
