When you are undergoing orthodontic treatment with braces, you are going to have to cut back on some of your favourite meals and crunchy snacks. Marshmallows are often a food people with braces aren't sure they should eat due to their sticky nature. In this post, our Surrey orthodontists discuss what you should know about eating marshmallows while you have braces.
Are Marshmallows Safe to Eat With Braces?
If you have recently gotten braces and are wondering whether marshmallows are a safe snack choice, we're here to set the record straight. Typically, marshmallows are a snack item that you should probably avoid during your orthodontic treatment with braces.
While marshmallows aren't a high risk for causing damage to your braces or wires, the sticky aspect of marshmallows is likely to get stuck between your teeth and braces which can lead to cavities and tooth discolouration.
However, if you thoroughly brush and floss your teeth after eating a marshmallow, you should be able to remove all of the remaining debris. Thankfully, marshmallows are relatively easier to brush and floss away compared to other sticky foods. Although marshmallows won't be too harmful if you brush and floss often and effectively, it is advised to avoid them if possible.
Simply put, marshmallows aren't the best snack choice if you have braces, but a thorough cleaning can reduce the risk of complications. So, if you're hoping to have a roasted marshmallow the next time you're camping, feel free. Just be sure to brush!
Snacks & Softer Foods That Are Safe to Eat With Braces
Since a lot of your favourite tasty soft treats may be off the table, you may be looking for snack options that are safe to eat with braces. Some snacks and soft foods that you will have no trouble eating include:
- Soft-baked cookies
- Muffins
- Soft Crackers
- Hard-boiled eggs
- Soft pretzels
- Soft chocolate
- Soft Cheese slices
- Yogurt
- Strawberries
- Bananas
- Pears
- Croissants
If you are looking for other safe soft foods to eat with your braces, or if you are unsure whether a food is safe to eat with your braces, your orthodontist will have no problem clearing up any inquiries you may have. If you aren't sure if something is safe to eat, it is best to err on the side of caution and just avoid it.
List of Foods You Should Avoid If You Have Braces
Throughout the treatment process, there is a wide variety of snacks and foods that can be problematic. You should do your best to avoid any foods that are too hard or sticky. Other than marshmallows, some common foods to avoid include:
- Celery
- Carrot sticks
- Popcorn
- Hard pretzels
- Peanuts
- Gum
- Nuts
- Hard or chewy candy
- Bagels
- Chips
- Ice cubes
- Taffy
If for whatever reason you find yourself in a position in which you have to eat something you probably shouldn't, cutting the food into small pieces will give you the best chance at avoiding complications.
Contact us for beautiful smiles with our treatment plan in Surrey!