Getting braces is often a big step, especially if it’s your first time. It feels new and strange in your mouth, and naturally, you’ll have questions about how this affects your daily life—especially your eating habits. One common question is: "Can I eat right after getting braces, or do I need to wait?"

In this article, you'll get a clear answer along with helpful advice on managing food and drinks during your first days with braces.

Can you eat immediately after getting braces?

Short answer: Yes, you can eat right after getting braces—but you'll need to be careful.

When braces are first placed, your teeth and mouth may feel tender or sensitive. It’s normal to experience some pressure, soreness, or discomfort during the first 1–3 days. Therefore, it’s especially important to eat carefully during this period to avoid pain and prevent damaging your braces.

If you instead choose invisible braces such as Invisalign, you can easily take the aligners out before eating and put them back in afterwards – giving you more freedom in your everyday life without compromising your treatment.

What types of foods are best right after getting braces?

During the first days after receiving braces, it's ideal to choose soft foods that require minimal chewing and are gentle on your teeth and gums. Here are some great choices:

• Soups: Mild soups like tomato, chicken, or blended vegetable soups are soothing and easy to eat.
• Mashed potatoes: Soft, nutritious, and gentle on sore teeth.
• Smoothies and shakes: Cold drinks made from fruit, berries, yogurt, or milk soothe your mouth and help reduce inflammation.
• Eggs: Scrambled or boiled eggs are easy to chew and rich in protein.
• Pasta: Soft, well-cooked pasta with mild sauces is gentle for both teeth and braces.
• Soft dairy products: Yogurt, cottage cheese, or soft cheeses provide nutrients without irritation.

Foods to avoid during the first days with braces

To reduce discomfort and avoid damaging your braces, steer clear of these foods immediately after your braces are put on:

• Hard foods: Raw carrots, crisp bread, tough meats, and nuts should be avoided since they require heavy chewing.
• Sticky foods: Caramels, chewing gum, and toffee can easily stick to your braces and even pull brackets off.
• Crispy snacks: Chips, popcorn, or brittle snacks can easily get stuck or damage braces.

Important tips for eating right after getting braces

In addition to choosing suitable foods, there are several practical ways to ease discomfort and make eating easier during your first days:

• Eat cold foods: Sugar-free ice cream, yogurt, or smoothies help soothe soreness and reduce swelling.
• Chew gently and slowly: Use your back teeth to chew, minimizing pressure on your sensitive front teeth.
• Cut food into small pieces: Smaller pieces are easier to manage and put less stress on your braces.
• Drink plenty of water: Drinking water regularly rinses away food particles, helping keep your mouth clean and reducing irritation.

When should you contact your dentist or orthodontist?

Usually, discomfort decreases within a few days. However, some situations may require professional attention:

• If severe pain persists for more than one week.
• If brackets or wires become loose or detached.
• If sores develop in your mouth and don't heal after a few days.

In these situations, it’s essential to contact your dentist or orthodontist promptly to prevent complications.

Summary and next steps

You certainly can eat right after getting braces, but it's important to stick to soft, gentle foods for the first few days. Avoiding hard, chewy, or sticky foods will help you minimize discomfort and avoid damaging your braces.

Follow your orthodontist’s instructions carefully, and maintain excellent oral hygiene. This will keep your braces intact and your teeth healthy throughout your treatment.

Would you like more personalized advice on managing braces? Schedule a consultation with us today, we're here to help you plan your diet and dental care throughout your orthodontic journey!