Summer is a fantastic time to enjoy delicious food. From state fairs to family barbecues, there are many culinary treats that are best enjoyed in the summer months. For those with braces, however, it is important to steer clear of certain foods. Consider this your summer food guide from your friendly Mahomet orthodontics office for healthy dental hygiene and orthodontic health.
Foods to Avoid this Summer
Most orthodontic appliances have certain restrictions regarding the foods that you can eat. Invisalign is a great alternative to traditional braces, with a nearly invisible look that will allow you to show off your gorgeous smile all summer. However, people with Invisalign must avoid eating or drinking while their aligners are in. Take that into account when attending a barbecue or event where you know there will be delicious food. For those with traditional braces, the following are foods to avoid:
Corn on the cob
Nothing says summer like corn on the cob with a bit of butter and salt. However, biting into corn on the cob could damage your braces and will almost certainly leave you with corn kernels stuck between your teeth. You can still enjoy corn on the cob without harming your orthodontic appliance. Simply remove the corn from the cob, and dig in!
Taffy
Salt water taffy is a beach favorite, but it is too sticky for people with braces. Find an alternative sweet treat for your boardwalk strolls. Dr. Shafer, the leading orthodontist in Mahomet, IL, recommends gummy bears, chocolates, M&Ms, or peanut butter cups when your sweet tooth hits.
Ice
An ice cold beverage can be the perfect antidote to a hot summer day. If you’re in the habit of crunching your ice cubes, stop! This can slow the progress of your orthodontic treatment. Instead, add crushed ice to your beverage or stick a frosty mug into the freezer before serving.
Popcorn
Like corn on the cob, popcorn kernels can be tough on teeth. If you’re hankering for a snack, soft fruit, a peanut butter and jelly sandwich, or pita bread with hummus are good alternatives.
If You Do Indulge
Everyone needs to indulge a little bit at some time or another. Of course, you should always abide by the hard and fast guidelines your Mahomet orthodontist sets (e.g., never chew on ice cubes or crunch on hard candies, which can damage your braces). If you do enjoy a sugary or slightly sticky snack, make sure you carefully care for your teeth afterward. Brush and floss your teeth, using a floss threader to get between your brackets to remove any debris. Swishing with mouthwash is another good way to kill germs that may linger in hard-to-reach places.
If you are unsure about the foods that you can eat this summer, ask your Mahomet, IL orthodontist. Our orthodontic office in Mahomet, IL is committed to helping patients find their best, healthiest smiles.
About Shafer Smiles
Mahomet, IL’s Favorite Orthodontist Specializing In Braces And Invisalign
Dr. Shafer, Mahomet, IL’s favorite orthodontist offers a variety of braces and orthodontic solutions to give you the best smile ever. This includes traditional metal braces, Invisalign, Invisalign Teen, clear braces, and Damon Smile braces.
Call 217.586.2030 today to schedule an appointment at our Mahomet, IL orthodontics office. Get the smile you’ve always dreamed of with Shafer Smiles!