Summer in Mahomet is a season of delicious flavors. From the fresh produce at the Mahomet Farmers Market to the sweet treats at the Mahomet Soda Fountain, there are tempting foods everywhere you turn. But if you’re wearing braces, it’s important to navigate the summer food scene with a little extra care to keep your orthodontic treatment on track.
Dr. Robert Shafer, your dedicated Mahomet orthodontist, wants you to enjoy all the fun and flavor of a Central Illinois summer without any orthodontic mishaps. At Shafer Smiles, we’re committed to making your braces journey as smooth as possible. Here’s our guide to the summer foods you should watch out for, and the many delicious alternatives you can enjoy.
The “Be Careful” List: Foods That Can Harm Your Braces
Certain foods can be tough on your braces, potentially leading to broken brackets, bent wires, and a longer treatment time. This summer, be mindful of:
•Hard, Crunchy Foods: This is a big category in the summer. Think popcorn at a movie in the park, hard pretzels at a baseball game, or crunchy tortilla chips at a picnic. Biting down on these can easily damage your braces.
•Tough, Chewy Meats: While a BBQ is a summer staple, be cautious with foods like steak, ribs, or beef jerky. If you do indulge, be sure to cut the meat into small, bite-sized pieces.
•Corn on the Cob: This is a classic summer favorite, but biting directly into the cob is a major no-no for braces. The pressure can easily pop a bracket off. The good news? You can still enjoy the corn! Just cut it off the cob first.
•Hard Fruits and Vegetables: Raw apples and carrots can also be a hazard. Instead of biting into them whole, cut them into thin slices.
•Sticky, Sugary Treats: Summer is full of sweet temptations, from saltwater taffy at a fair to caramel apples. These sticky foods can get stuck in your braces and are difficult to clean, increasing your risk of cavities.
Your Braces-Friendly Summer Menu
Don’t worry, there are still plenty of delicious summer foods you can enjoy without a second thought! Dr. Shafer’s “go-for-it” list includes:
•Soft Fruits: Berries, bananas, melon, and peaches are all great choices.
•Cooked Vegetables: Steamed or roasted vegetables are soft and easy to eat.
•Tender Meats: Grilled chicken, fish, and slow-cooked pulled pork are all excellent, braces-friendly options.
•Classic Picnic Sides: Potato salad, macaroni and cheese, baked beans, and pasta salad are all safe bets.
•Cool Summer Treats: Ice cream, yogurt, smoothies, and milkshakes are perfect for a hot summer day.
Your Partner in a Healthy Smile
Living in a vibrant, family-friendly community like Mahomet means there’s always something fun to do, and food is often a central part of the experience. Dr. Robert Shafer and the team at Shafer Smiles are here to support you throughout your orthodontic journey, providing the guidance you need to make smart choices for your smile.
Remember, a little care goes a long way in ensuring your treatment stays on schedule. And if you ever have a question about a particular food, don’t hesitate to ask!
Ready to learn more about life with braces or start your own smile transformation? Call our Mahomet office at 217.356.9595 to schedule a complimentary consultation with Dr. Shafer. Enjoy your summer!