Tips to Get Used to Metal Braces

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When you get metal braces in Fort Meyers, FL, it may take some time to get used to them. Even knowing that the payoff for wearing the braces will be phenomenal, it can be hard living with metal braces day to day. Here are some expert tips to get used to them.

Start With Soft Foods

In the first few days after you’ve had your braces put on, your teeth and mouth may be more sensitive and tender than usual. During this time, it’s good to start with soft foods, so you can prepare ahead of time by having these foods available to you:

  • ice cream or healthy faux ice cream
  • soups
  • stews
  • mashed potatoes
  • creamed vegetables (easy to prepare in a blender)
  • yogurt
  • smoothies
  • green juices
  • bananas (cut into slices)
  • puddings

Basically, soft foods that don’t require a lot of chewing work best.

Take Selfies

It’s actually helpful to take some selfies so you can practice smiling or whatever new “look” you want to adopt in photos. This will help you to feel more self-confident so you don’t feel like you have to cover your mouth when you smile or speak in public.

Let Others Get Used to Them

The more you look at anything, the more accustomed you get to it. It’s the same way with your friends and peers at school. Yes, the first time they see you with metal braces they may be surprised or comment on them. But if you just act like they’re nothing special and go about your day, in a day or so everyone will be so used to seeing them they’ll barely notice them.

Focus on the Positives

Whenever you start feeling down about having to wear braces, think about how amazing your teeth are going to look afterward. You’ll be able to enjoy gorgeous, well-aligned teeth for the rest of your life after just a short time wearing braces. It’s definitely worth it!

Finally, remember that many teens and even adults have to wear braces. You’re not alone, and your Fort Meyers, FL dentist is here to help. Contact us anytime for more helpful tips on getting used to braces.

What You Can and Can’t Eat with Metal Braces

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If you just received your new metal braces, there are certain foods you can and can’t eat. Your dentist in Fort Meyers, FL, will go over all the dos and don’ts with you. But until then, here is what you need to know.

What You Can and Can’t Eat with Metal Braces

Let’s review.

What You Should Eat the First Few Days After Getting Braces

Immediately after getting your braces, your mouth and gums will be sensitive. Therefore, you will need to stick with eating soft foods that are gentle and won’t cause pain or discomfort. Here are a few of the foods you can eat for the first few days after getting your new metal braces in Fort Meyers, FL.

  • Scrambled eggs
  • Oatmeal
  • Soup
  • Soft vegetables
  • Bananas
  • Yogurt
  • Ice cream
  • Mashed potatoes

Foods to Avoid When You Have Metal Braces

There are some foods you will need to avoid completely. At least until you’ve completed your braces treatment. Below are the foods you absolutely cannot eat when you have metal braces. If you do, it could damage your braces.

  • Hard candies
  • Sticky candies
  • Popcorn
  • Chips
  • Pretzels
  • Nuts
  • Crunchy fruits and vegetables
  • Corn on the cob
  • Beef jerky
  • Chewing gum
  • Hard rolls and bagels

Foods You Can Eat When You Have Metal Braces

But never fear; there are plenty of foods you can eat even when you have metal braces. Here are just a few of your options.

  • Pasta
  • Pizza without the crust
  • Casserole
  • Soft breads
  • Sandwiches
  • Dairy products
  • Soup
  • Soft fruits and vegetables
  • Soft meats that don’t have bones

How to Enjoy Some of Your Favorite Foods without Damaging Your Braces

There are some foods that you are told to avoid when you have metal braces that can still be eaten if you follow a few simple rules. Foods like raw vegetables, hard rolls, croutons, thin pizza crusts, meat, subs, burgers, and the like can all be eaten. But only if you cut them into small pieces first.

Looking for a Dentist in Fort Meyers, FL?

Getting your teeth straightened is an exciting time — at least the prospect of a perfect smile is exciting once you’ve completed your treatment. Please Contact Orthodontics Exclusively to schedule an appointment for your new braces today. We love perfecting peoples’ smiles and we can do the same for you too!