If you just got your braces and want to indulge yourself with your favorite food, you might want to know if it’s safe. For example, are you wondering if you can eat grilled cheese with braces?
It’s hard enough to eat with braces even when everything goes well. But when something goes wrong – like a piece of chewy grilled cheese getting stuck in your wires – it can be downright frustrating. The pain of wanting to get it out, but not being able to is enough to drive anyone crazy.
Can I eat grilled cheese with braces?
Good news dairy lovers, the answer is yes. You can eat a grilled cheese sandwich as long as the bread isn’t too dry. Otherwise, it might get stuck between your braces which will be extremely difficult and painful to remove. So make sure the bread isn’t too crispy.
What about the cheese? Go for a softer variety like mozzarella or quick melt. Avoid hard cheeses like cheddar since they’re more likely to glue in your braces than melt in your mouth.
If you really want to play it safe, you can cut it into small pieces so it’s easier to chew, leaving no large chunks that could get stuck or wires that could come undone. The smaller the food is means there’s a lesser chance that something will go wrong.
How to clean your teeth with braces?
Brush every after a meal.
Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and toothpaste to brush your teeth. And because you have braces, it’s necessary to do it after every meal, in this case, your grilled cheese sandwich, to avoid food particles from sticking to your teeth and wires.
You can also use an interdental brush to clean the spaces between your teeth and braces. Just be careful not to put too much pressure on your gums.
Floss.
Brushing alone can’t remove everything, particularly the grilled cheese junks. Floss your teeth at least once a day to remove stubborn plaque and food residuals in hard-to-reach areas. You can use a floss threader to make things easier and get the job done.
Rinse with mouthwash.
Mouthwash can help remove plaque and bacteria that brushing and flossing can’t reach. This will also help reduce the risk of developing gingivitis and other gum diseases.
Visit your orthodontist regularly.
See your orthodontist every 4 to 6 weeks for a checkup and cleaning. This is essential to ensure that your braces are in good condition and to check if your teeth are moving as they should. If you feel like grilled cheese is still left in your braces, your orthodontist is the key.
Conclusion
In general, it’s always best to err on the side of caution when it comes to eating with braces. Eat your grilled cheese sandwich as much as possible, but make sure the bread isn’t dry and clean your teeth afterward. Follow the tips above to avoid any dental disasters.
If you’re ever unsure about a certain food, it’s always best to ask your orthodontist or braces-friendly dentist. With a little bit of care and precaution, you’ll be able to enjoy all your favorite foods with braces in no time.
