July is National Picnic Month and we hope you get to enjoy time outside with family and friends! However, if you go on a picnic, make sure you choose picnic foods that will not cause damage to the brackets and wires on your braces. Dr. Hutta and Dr. Price have some recommendations for putting together a picnic basket that will be healthy for your braces and delicious:
SOFT FRUITS
Fruits like bananas, peaches, and blueberries are delicious, easy to chew, and not likely to damage braces. Take advantage of all the tasty fruit that’s in season during the summer months.
CHEESE
Cheese is a dental superfood, and, because it’s generally soft, it’s easy to chew. In addition to its many nutritional benefits, cheese can lower the acidity levels of the mouth, promoting overall oral hygiene. Best of all, string cheese is a super easy addition to your picnic basket!
SOFT, RAW VEGGIES
During your orthodontic treatment, you should mostly opt for cooked vegetables, but softer, raw veggies, like cucumbers and peppers, are unlikely to damage your braces. Try pairing them with hummus for extra flavor and protein!
HARD BOILED OR DEVILED EGGS
Another great source of protein, eggs are very easy to eat and won’t damage the wires and brackets on your braces.
PUDDING CUPS
You don’t have to skip dessert during your orthodontic treatment! Instead, opt for a soft and sweet option, like pudding, and avoid hard, crunchy, or chewy desserts.
WATER
On your picnic, skip the sugary sodas and juices that erode the enamel of your teeth. Instead, pack water! Not only is water healthy and refreshing, but it is also one of the easiest and most effective ways to keep your braces clean and free from food!
We hope you’re enjoying the beautiful summer months. If you have any questions or concerns (about your braces-friendly picnic, or otherwise!) please feel free to call us at (614) 855-8800.