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Out of all the adjustments you will need to make to successfully get through your time with braces, your eating habits will probably be the most noticeable. After all, when you get used to the feeling of braces being in your mouth, the times you eat and clean your teeth may be the only times you pay any attention to them. That being said, it’s best to be prepared when it comes to which types of foods you will eat often and how to eat your favorite foods with braces.
How to Eat a Sandwich with Braces
If you’re like many people, you enjoy a good sandwich from time to time. Between the abundance of possibilities for different combinations and the convenience of taking your meal on the go if you’re in a rush, what’s not to love about sandwiches? So, can you still indulge in this tasty food while you have braces in your mouth?
The answer is yes, if you do it right. Given that sandwiches vary so much, you will need to make the right choices any time you make yourself a sandwich or order one while you’re out. You will also need to be careful while eating a sandwich with braces so you don’t end up causing damage to your braces.
Choose Soft Bread
Some types of bread come with lots of seeds, which can make them a little too crunchy for your braces. Plus, seeds can end up getting lodged underneath or in between the parts of your braces, causing lots of discomfort. You should also avoid toasting your sandwiches, which can result in an overly crunchy texture that can be bad for your braces. Instead, stick to soft bread that is easy to bite into and will be easy on your braces. Untoasted whole wheat bread is often the best choice. While white bread is soft and easy to chew, it is especially easy to get stuck in your braces and results in rapid plaque development.
Choose Condiments that Won’t Stain
When you have braces, you’ll want to avoid foods that can stain your teeth to have the best-looking smile when you get your braces removed. While it’s always advisable to avoid staining your teeth, it is especially bad when you have braces since the areas underneath your brackets will be a different color when your braces are removed at the end of your treatment. If you have a sandwich while you have braces, avoid colorful sauces like mustard or tomato-based condiments.
Eat Slowly and Carefully
To protect your braces, it’s best to eat sandwiches in small bites. You can protect your braces even further by cutting your sandwich into small pieces before eating it. Don’t rush while you are eating and make sure you leave yourself plenty of time to brush your teeth with a soft-bristled toothbrush and toothpaste when you are finished.
To learn more about what to expect out of your orthodontic treatment and best practices for life with braces, contact Charleston Orthodontic Specialists today to schedule a free consultation.
