If your kid has crooked, shifted, or misaligned teeth, getting treatment with an orthodontist in Pearl City can help them recover their confidence in their smile while putting them on the right track towards a healthier mouth—thus, a healthier life. Sadly, that is easier said than done.
The journey of getting orthodontic treatments like braces can be long and intricate, lasting around two years. During this time, many children dislike the feel of the brackets and wires on their mouths or struggle to maintain oral hygiene. To help you calm your child’s worries, here are 10 healthy foods that help speed up their treatment.
Nutrition and Teeth: An Underestimated Link
The foods you eat daily have the power to impact your oral health positively or negatively. This knowledge isn’t a surprise: candies, sugary drinks, and even carbohydrates are well-known tooth-decay-fostering foods that could increase cavities and harm your child’s oral health.
However, many people do not realize that the foods and nutrients you eat can also make your teeth stronger from the inside. Teeth are bones; as such, they receive a constant influx of minerals and nutrients from the complex system of nerves inside them or pulp.
For this reason, adults may notice their teeth have become weaker and brittle after a root canal treatment. This also means that, with the proper diet, you can improve your teeth’s health, strengthen them, and even fasten an orthodontic treatment!
So, to help you make this journey easier for your child, here are 10 healthy foods that can boost their oral health and help them achieve their orthodontics goals faster!
1. Dairy Products
Dairy products, like milk, cheese, and yogurt, are rich in calcium and vitamin D, both of which are essential for strong teeth and bones. By strengthening these areas, you encourage the bones to move faster, achieving quicker results.
Casein proteins, commonly found in cheese, can also help by forming a protective layer on teeth, reducing the risk of cavities during times when maintaining oral hygiene becomes harder. You can add them to your child’s diet by offering yogurt with fresh fruit as a snack or making small cheese canapés.
2. Soft Fruits
Fruits like bananas, berries, and applesauce provide essential vitamins and minerals for your child’s health without being hard on braces or aligners. Pay special attention to fruits packed with vitamins C and A, like oranges, mangoes, and watermelon, as these also support gum health.
You can prepare a fruit salad for them to take to school as a refreshing treat. If you add harder fruits, like apples, remember to cut them into small pieces so they don’t damage their appliances.
3. Cooked Vegetables
Vegetables are vital for a balanced diet, providing vitamins and minerals necessary for overall health. Moreover, cooking vegetables softens their texture, making them easier to eat for children undergoing orthodontic treatment and reducing the likelihood of pain or discomfort when chewing.
For a nutritious side dish, you can serve steamed broccoli, mashed sweet potatoes, or zucchini noodles. If your child doesn’t like these options, add a little bit of cheese to improve their flavor!
4. Whole Grains
Whole grains like oatmeal, brown rice, and quinoa offer a healthy source of carbohydrates, fueling your child’s energy needs. These fiber-rich foods promote digestive health and help prevent gum disease.
Moreover, when cooked, they become soft and easy to chew. You can encourage them to start the day with a bowl of oatmeal topped with fruit or prepare quinoa salad for lunch. However, it’s important to teach them how to carefully clean their teeth afterward to remove the remaining seeds!
5. Lean Proteins
Lean proteins like chicken, turkey, fish, and legumes are crucial for growth and tissue repair, especially during orthodontic treatment. These foods are crucial for muscle health, bringing valuable proteins that support overall body growth and oral health.
You can prepare baked chicken for them, with steamed vegetables or a hearty lentil soup.
6. Nut Butters
Nut butter, such as peanut or almond butter, is nutritious and provides healthy fats essential for growth. It also offers protein and healthy fats that support energy levels. Thanks to its soft texture, it can be ideal for orthodontic diets.
You can spread nut butter on whole-grain toast for breakfast or use it as a dip for apple slices.
7. Soups and Broths
Soups are a comforting and nutritious option, especially for children with braces. Soft and easy to consume, reduce the risk of irritation to your kid’s sensitive gums. Additionally, they’re a valuable source of hydration.
This is fundamental during braces treatments, as water and other hydration sources promote saliva production, which helps fight cavities. For a warm, satisfying meal, you can prepare chicken noodle soup or a creamy tomato bisque.
8. Eggs
Eggs are an excellent source of nutrients and are versatile in cooking, making them easy to incorporate into meals. High in protein, eggs support muscle repair and growth. Moreover, their soft texture makes them easy-to-eat foods.
Serve scrambled eggs for breakfast or include them in a veggie omelet for a nutritious dinner.
9. Soft Breads and Pastries
Soft breads can be a great source of carbohydrates, providing energy for your child’s daily activities. Their softness prevents discomfort when biting down, making them suitable for orthodontic patients.
Moreover, they’re a versatile food option. It can be used for sandwiches or enjoyed with spreads. If you can, opt for whole-grain soft bread for sandwiches.
10. Sugar-Free Treats
While sweets should be limited during orthodontic treatment, sugar-free treats can satisfy cravings without harming oral health. Sugar-free options are available in many flavors and forms, making them appealing to kids.
For example, you can offer them sugar-free gelatin or dark chocolate as a treat in moderation.
Learn More from an Orthodontist in Pearl City
While there’s no magical recipe for orthodontic treatments, good nutrition is always important to protect your child’s smile and ensure their bodies are as healthy as possible. This will speed up their orthodontic treatment and teach them the importance of eating healthy foods every day.
If you have any doubts about what your child can and can’t eat with braces or would like a professional orthodontist’s help, Kidshine Pediatric Dental Group is here for you. Reach out, and let’s work together to protect your child’s smile!