We all enjoy a scoop of our favorite ice cream, and kids with braces are no exception. As a parent, it’s okay to be worried and ask if it will affect your child’s treatment in any way. The good news is, yes, you can eat ice cream with braces, but with a few things to keep in mind. Here is what you should know.
Yes, you can! In fact, ice cream is one of those softer treats that orthodontists and pediatric dentists often suggest as a comfort option during the first week of braces treatment.
Why? That’s because when you first get braces, your teeth will feel a little sore. It doesn’t last too long. It usually goes away within a few days. This discomfort happens as your teeth begin to shift into their new positions. Even during that short time, the discomfort can feel bothersome.
Eating cold treats like ice cream helps soothe that pain. For young kids, this can be quite relieving. Just remember to enjoy it in moderation.
It’s perfectly fine to enjoy ice cream while you’re wearing braces. Can you eat all types of ice cream? No, and that’s where you have to be more careful.
Your orthodontist probably advised steering clear of hard, crunchy, or sticky foods while you’re wearing braces. As a general guideline, stick with plain ice creams or soft serve.
Any hard or crunchy toppings like nuts, candy pieces, or caramel crunch may get stuck in your braces or cause them to break off.
For kids, it’s also better to avoid icelollies or popsicles. They’re not too hard to eat, but when your teeth are already sore from braces, it may increase sensitivity for some children, especially in the first few days.
Now that you know which types are safe, how often can you have them? You already know that ice cream contains sugar, and all that sugar is not good for your teeth.
During the first week of wearing braces, you can enjoy a scoop or two occasionally to soothe your sore teeth, but not too frequently. Eating ice cream is fine in the latter part of the treatment, too, as long as you practice moderation.
You can also choose sugar-free ice creams or soft serves. Once you’re done eating, quickly rinse your mouth or brush your teeth afterward.
It’s okay to enjoy your favorite flavor of ice cream with braces, but there are a few things to stay mindful of. Choose softer varieties, and leave out any hard or sticky toppings.If you have any more questions about what you can and cannot eat with braces, visit our dentist at Aquario Dental and Braces today! Start by scheduling an appointment at our Wayside Drive or West Little York office.
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