8 Soft and Delicious Treats: Braces Friendly Snacks for the Whole Family (Kids & Adults Alike) | Smile Line Dentistry

8 Soft and Delicious Treats: Braces Friendly Snacks for the Whole Family (Kids & Adults Alike)

Adapting to wearing braces can be a challenge for children and adults. Adjusting one’s eating habits can be even more difficult. While your child may not see the importance of what they can and cannot eat, it’s important to provide them with snacks that are braces friendly. This precautionary measure helps protect their braces from any potential damage.

Despite certain snacks being off-limits for those with braces, there is no shortage of delicious alternatives for you or your child to eat. Explore these 8 mouthwatering soft snacks that are absolutely perfect for anyone undergoing orthodontic treatment.

  1. Grapes

Grapes make excellent snacks for children wearing braces. They are classified as soft fruits, making them easily chewable. They also offer a healthy option for your child, as they are packed with numerous vitamins and fibre.

  1. Yogurt

With its smooth and creamy texture, yogurt reduces the risk of causing any damage to your child’s braces. Yogurt is also packed with nutrients, including calcium and protein, which are beneficial for oral health and the overall well-being of you or your child. It supports healthy tooth development and helps maintain strong teeth and bones.

  1. String Cheese

Being able to pull apart the string cheese allows you or your child to enjoy smaller, manageable portions without the need for intense chewing. String cheese is a great source of protein and calcium, while also being a fun and enjoyable snack for kids. It requires no preparation and it’s a convenient and portable snack option.

  1. Applesauce

Its smooth and pureed texture eliminates the need for biting or chewing, reducing the risk of damaging the braces or causing discomfort. Applesauce is also rich in vitamins, fibre, and antioxidants, providing essential nutrients for a healthy diet.

  1. Smoothie

The smooth texture of a smoothie allows children to easily consume a variety of nutrients without putting stress on their orthodontic appliances. This snack also provides an opportunity to incorporate a wide range of fruits, vegetables, and other nutritious ingredients into a single glass.

  1. Pudding

A smooth and creamy dessert option that requires minimal chewing. Children can enjoy the taste of pudding without worrying about biting into hard or crunchy ingredients. Pudding offers a wide range of flavours and the ability to personalize it with toppings like fruits, whipped cream, or sprinkles. This variety allows children to experience different tastes and textures while still enjoying the soft consistency that is gentle on their braces.

  1. Mashed Avocado

Mashed avocado is great to spread on soft bread or eaten plain for a nutritious snack. It’s also packed with essential nutrients, including healthy fats, fibre, vitamins, and minerals.

  1. Hummus

Hummus provides a delicious and braces friendly snack option for children. Its soft texture, nutrient content, and oral health benefits make it an ideal choice for kids with braces to enjoy a satisfying and wholesome snack while taking care of their dental health.

Here is a homemade authentic, smooth, and creamy hummus recipe that is easy to make:

  • Chickpeas (3 Cups)
  • Garlic (1 or 2 Cloves)
  • Tahini (1/3 Cup)
  • Fresh Lemon Juice (From 1 Lemon)
  • Kosher Salt
  • Extra Virgin Olive Oil
  • Garnish

Snacks that can easily break your child’s braces are usually the crunchy, chewy, sticky and hard foods and should be avoided. Snacks like:

  • Popcorn
  • Pretzels
  • Nuts
  • Chewing gum
  • Raw carrots
  • Apples
  • Corn on the cob
  • Candy bars
  • Gummies
  • Dried Fruit
  • Caramel
  • Toffee

Alternative to Braces: The Invisalign Advantage

If your child has the option of Invisalign plastic aligners, the choice is clear. When it comes to orthodontic treatment, Invisalign aligners stand out by providing a precise fit over the teeth while gently guiding them into the desired position. One of the major advantages of this treatment is the convenience it offers in daily life. The aligners can be easily removed, allowing your child to enjoy their favourite foods and drinks without any worries or restrictions. Additionally, oral hygiene routines become hassle-free as the aligners can be taken out, making it easier to brush and floss for optimal dental care.

Adjusting your child’s diet can be a challenging endeavour once they have braces, but it is a crucial step to prevent any potential damage. The good news is that there is a diverse selection of soft snacks specifically designed for children with braces, ensuring that they can enjoy treats without compromising their orthodontic treatment.

Discover our comprehensive Orthodontic & Paediatric Dental Services at Smileline Orthodontics & Kids Dentistry, where we offer numerous treatment options to ensure your smile is one you are proud to share.