Can I eat hot dogs with braces? This is probably one of the primary questions that cross your mind once you have braces on your teeth.
Although braces will finally give you an elegant smile and shiny teeth, it is critical to know the foods you can/cannot eat while having braces on your teeth. The hot dog is one of the children’s favorite fast foods, that is why in this article we are going to see if you can eat one while having braces.
Can I Eat Hot Dogs with Braces?
Yes. You can eat hot dogs while having braces but you need to take the necessary precautions and clean your braces and teeth after eating hot dogs.
Those children who have difficulties opening their mouths for any reason can eat a hot dog without a bun while having their braces. Some people cannot easily open their mouths in this case due to having bands on their braces.
Another good approach, in this case, is to slice and cut the food you are going to eat with braces. For example, if you are serving bratwurst, you can slice it to help kids bite into it more easily.
Always take your time while eating hot dogs with braces. Keep in mind that your teeth might be sore or sensitive for the first starting days after the installation or adjustment of your braces. It is just enough to avoid sticky, gooey, crunchy, or hard foods that are prone to damaging your teeth.
Tips to Keep Your Teeth Clean After Eating Hot Dogs with Braces
It is highly vital to take care of your teeth when you eat hot dogs and have braces. The truth is that braces expedite the plaque buildup process as the brackets and wires keep food remains and create a persistent shelf around your teeth. Plaque can easily stain your teeth and wear your enamel.
To keep your teeth healthy while having braces, follow these tips:
Soft Toothbrush
Once you eat a hot dog, it is essential to cleanse the area between your brackets and gums. To do so, try to gently touch the gums. It is better to use a toothbrush with soft bristles to avoid irritation. Try to keep the angle of your brush toward your gums carefully for maximum efficiency.
Frequent Brushing
It is advised to brush your teeth frequently to avoid plaque, as brace wires trap food remains easily. If you do not have a toothbrush available, rinsing with water for 30 seconds can also be adequate. Keep in mind that in the case of eating acidic foods you should wait for 30 to 60 minutes before brushing your teeth, as it might soften your enamel. However, you can brush your teeth after eating a hot dog right away.
Not Too Much Toothpaste
Avoid using too much toothpaste as the resulting foam prevents you from viewing the plaque and debris. Initially, brush your teeth with only a wet toothbrush after you eat your hot dog. This allows you to cleanse the brackets and wires. Try to be precise rather than tough. Later, add a pea-sized amount of toothpaste and brush your teeth.
Two Minutes Rule
Experts say that you should spend at least two minutes brushing your teeth to ensure the hot dog particles are efficiently removed. Allocate 30 seconds to each corner of your mouth, and brush both the inner and outer sides of your teeth. You can even use a timer for this purpose.
Floss Threader and Waterpik Flosser
It is more than necessary to floss your teeth while having braces. Using a floss threader can help you remove the hot dog remains between the wires with ease. Also, purchasing a Waterpik water flosser can be a wonderful idea for higher efficiency. It can instantly and easily cleanse your teeth with a stream of water.
Mouthwash
Anti-cavity, fluoride mouthwashes can lower the rate of tooth decay and guard your enamel. Do not forget to rinse for one minute to get rid of all the debris. Additionally, watch your teeth in the mirror closely so no particles are left.
Conclusion
It is easily possible to eat hot dogs with braces. However, it will be a disaster if you do not do it carefully or keep your teeth clean once you do it. The best approach is to slice your hot dog into several pieces for easier chewing. Also, do not rush and bite gently and patiently.
It is essential to keep your teeth clean after eating a hot dog with braces. You can frequently and efficiently brush them with a soft brush. Plus, floss them and use a mouthwash for maximum cleanness.
