Dating with braces? While date night can be a nerve-wracking experience, above all else, it should be fun! Fortunately, your braces don’t have to be a source of worry. With a few simple tips you can flash your beautiful smile at your date as many times as you want to without being worried about leftovers being hidden in your brackets.
Read on for some advice from Dr. Brandon Zipper at Zipper Orthodontics.
Dating with Braces: Tips for Enjoying Every Moment Without Worry
AT A NICE RESTAURANT – STICK TO SOFT FOODS
While mood lighting can help hide a lot of things, it can’t get rid of food in your teeth. So that you can smile with confidence all night long, stick to soft foods. Pasta, mashed potatoes, soups, and other softer options are easy to eat, without little bits that stick around in wires and brackets. Any crunchy fruits or veggies could prove difficult as well. Let’s just say corn should be a “no-go” whether you have braces or not! Also, any chewy bread or pizza should be cut up into small pieces before consuming.
AT THE MOVIES – SKIP THE POPCORN
Not only are those little kernels bound to get stuck in your braces, eating popcorn can potentially damage your braces. Nothing will ruin date night like breaking a bracket in the middle of a movie. Also, be sure to avoid any sticky or hard chocolate or candy items. Instead, order a refreshing ICEE or soda. You can even split a delicious soft pretzel, just be sure to eat it in small pieces!
AT THE FAIR – SKIP THE STICKY STUFF
Any sticky taffy, candied nuts, or hard cookies should be avoided. Be careful with cotton candy too, as sticky foods are a challenge with braces. Instead, opt for a soft elephant ear or some soft-serve ice cream. Then you’ll be fueled to enjoy rides until the sun goes down!
Post-Meal Hygiene Tips: Your Kit Is Non-Negotiable
Why is it so important? Food particles can easily get lodged in brackets and wires, causing bad breath, plaque buildup, or even staining. Here’s what to carry in your braces care kit:
- Travel-size toothbrush and toothpaste
- Interdental brushes or floss picks
- Compact mirror
- Small bottle of mouthwash or water
Clean your teeth discreetly after eating in the bathroom—it’s a small effort that boosts your confidence for the rest of the date.
Don’t let date night with braces be a big deal, because it isn’t!
Dating with braces doesn’t mean sacrificing fun—it just means being a little more prepared. Just be sure to avoid certain foods to keep the night running smoothly. You can even pack a toothbrush if you want to be super prepared. Should you ever have questions about which foods you can and cannot eat with braces, please contact our office. We’re here to help!
