Summer in Mahomet is all about getting outdoors and spending time with family and friends. From community gatherings at Barber Park to family picnics by the Sangamon River at Lake of the Woods Forest Preserve, firing up the grill is a cherished local tradition. But if you or your child is wearing braces, you might be looking at that BBQ menu with a little uncertainty.
Don’t let orthodontic treatment keep you from enjoying your favorite summer pastime! Dr. Robert Shafer, your trusted Mahomet orthodontist, is here to share his top tips for navigating any cookout with confidence. At Shafer Smiles, we believe that a beautiful, healthy smile should go hand-in-hand with a happy, fulfilling life.
Dr. Shafer’s Picks for a Perfect, Braces-Friendly Plate
With a few smart choices, you can load up your plate with delicious BBQ fare that’s perfectly safe for your braces. Here’s what Dr. Shafer recommends:
•Master the Main Course: Tough meats like steak or ribs can be a challenge. Instead, opt for tender choices. Think slow-cooked pulled pork or chicken that’s so soft it falls apart with a fork. Grilled fish, like salmon, is another fantastic and flavorful option. If hamburgers are on the menu, just be sure to cut them into smaller, bite-sized pieces instead of biting directly into the bun.
•Choose Your Sides Wisely: The side dishes are often the star of a BBQ, and many are naturally braces-friendly! Load up on classics like macaroni and cheese, baked beans, potato salad, and deviled eggs. These soft, satisfying options are easy on your hardware. Craving corn on the cob? No problem! Simply ask someone to cut the kernels off the cob for you. It’s the same great taste without the risk to your brackets and wires.
•Don’t Forget Dessert! End your meal on a sweet note with soft desserts. A scoop of ice cream, a cup of yogurt, or a soft-baked cookie are all excellent choices. Just be sure to steer clear of hard or sticky candies that might be lurking on the dessert table.
The BBQ “No-Fly Zone” for Braces
To keep your treatment on track, it’s best to avoid a few common BBQ culprits:
•Tough, Chewy Meats: Ribs, steak, and other tough cuts can be hard on your braces.
•Hard Buns and Rolls: Biting into a crusty roll can pop a bracket off.
•Corn on the Cob: Always cut the kernels off!
•Hard, Crunchy Snacks: Chips and hard pretzels are best avoided.
•Sticky, Sugary Sauces: Use them in moderation and be sure to brush thoroughly afterward.
Be Prepared: Your On-the-Go Braces Care Kit
Dr. Shafer’s pro-tip for any social event is to bring a small orthodontic care kit with you. A travel toothbrush, toothpaste, and some orthodontic wax can be a lifesaver after a meal. A quick brush and check-up in the restroom will ensure no food is left behind and that your braces are in good shape.
Enjoy Your Summer with Shafer Smiles in Mahomet
As a dedicated member of the Mahomet community, Dr. Robert Shafer is passionate about helping his patients live life to the fullest. Having braces doesn’t mean you have to miss out on the fun events that make our town so special, like the annual Mahomet Music Festival.
If you have any questions about life with braces or are ready to start your journey to a perfect smile, we invite you to our Mahomet office. We’re proud to serve our neighbors and help create generations of beautiful, healthy smiles.
Call our Mahomet, IL orthodontics office today at 217.356.9595 to schedule your complimentary consultation with Dr. Shafer. We look forward to welcoming you!