Article written by Diamond Braces Clinical Staff
Article medically reviewed by Dr. Oleg Drut

We all love a scoop of ice cream from time to time, and having braces shouldn’t hold you back. The good news is that you can enjoy ice cream even with braces, and in certain cases, it’s even recommended. However, it’s important to remember that ice cream is still high in fats and sugars, so moderation is key. Additionally, there are certain flavors that may contain nuts, candies, or other hard-to-chew items that you should avoid.

Can You Safely Indulge in Ice Cream With Braces?

Yes, you can definitely enjoy ice cream while wearing braces. In fact, during the first week of braces treatment, ice cream is one of the recommended foods. It can help soothe any discomfort you may experience as your teeth adjust to the braces.

However, there are a couple of things to keep in mind when consuming ice cream. Firstly, it’s important to choose the right flavors and types of ice cream to prevent damage to your braces and to avoid any delays in your treatment. Secondly, maintaining a proper oral care routine while eating ice cream is crucial to prevent tooth decay and gum disease.

Avoid Ice Cream That’s Hard or Frozen

It’s best to avoid very hard and extremely cold ice cream. Cold foods can cause sensitivity and discomfort in your teeth, which can be exacerbated by the presence of braces. Additionally, ice cream that is too hard to chew can cause discomfort during the early days of braces treatment. Take your time and eat your ice cream slowly and cautiously to steer clear of accidentally biting into a hard chunk or getting a brain freeze.

Note: To make it easier on your teeth, consider indulging in soft-serve ice cream or frozen yogurt from your favorite shop. If you’re at home, you can also briefly microwave your ice cream to soften it. Softer ice creams are gentler on your teeth.

Stick to Plain Flavors

When selecting a sweet treat, opt for ice cream flavors that do not contain crunchy, sticky, or hard components. Unfortunately, this means that you may have to stick to plain ice cream throughout your braces journey. Complex flavors with bits and pieces can get stuck in your braces, causing discomfort and difficulty in cleaning. Flavors such as chocolate chip cookie dough, rocky road, and pistachio with nuts should be avoided while wearing braces.

Maintain Proper Oral Care

Remember to brush, floss, and rinse after consuming ice cream. Ice cream is high in sugar, so it’s important to enjoy it in moderation and rinse your mouth with water immediately afterward.

If you have concerns about the potential impact of ice cream or any other food on your braces, don’t hesitate to consult your orthodontist. They can provide you with valuable advice on how to care for your braces and which foods to avoid during your treatment. They may also recommend soft foods like mashed potatoes.

In Conclusion

In conclusion, you can still indulge in ice cream even with braces, but it’s crucial to be mindful of its temperature and consume it slowly and cautiously. Additionally, maintaining proper oral care during your orthodontic treatment is essential. Remember to brush your teeth, rinse your mouth, and floss hard-to-reach areas after each meal. By following these guidelines, you can still enjoy your favorite frozen treat without compromising the effectiveness of your braces or the overall health of your teeth.

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