When you’re feeling under the weather, eating can feel like a chore. Adding braces to the mix makes things even trickier. Sore teeth, low appetite, and irritated gums make many patients in Philadelphia wonder what they can safely enjoy without causing more discomfort.
The good news is that you can still nourish your body and take care of your braces at the same time, as long as you choose the right foods and avoid the ones that can cause damage or unnecessary irritation. Dr. Jordyn Middleberg at Rittenhouse Orthodontics in Philadelphia helps patients navigate moments like these all the time, and her advice can make sick days a lot more manageable.
What to Eat When You Are Sick with Braces
When you are feeling run-down, soft foods are your best friend. They are gentle on sore teeth, they do not require much chewing, and they still help you get the nutrients your body needs to recover. Patients with metal braces and clear braces in Philadelphia should focus on foods that are warm, comforting, and easy to swallow.
Soups and Broths
Warm soup is soothing and simple to eat. Chicken noodle, vegetable, and bone broth-based soups are perfect because they hydrate you and deliver essential nutrients. Just be sure the vegetables and noodles are soft enough that you do not have to chew too hard.
Smoothies and Yogurt
If a hot meal does not sound appealing, smoothies are a great alternative. Blend fruit, yogurt, and a liquid like water or milk for something easy on tender teeth. You can add spinach or protein powder for an extra health boost. Yogurt is also great because it’s soft, cool, and full of probiotics that can support your immune system.
Mashed Foods
Mashed potatoes, mashed bananas, applesauce, and oatmeal are easy to eat and easy to digest. They are especially helpful when you have a sore throat or if your stomach is upset.
Soft Proteins
Scrambled eggs, tender fish, and tofu give your body the protein it needs to support your immune system. They are easy to chew and gentle on your braces. Many patients find these foods helpful if they have lost their appetite but still want something substantial.
What to Avoid Eating When You’re Sick with Braces
When you are not feeling your best, the last thing you want is a broken bracket or irritated gums. Certain foods that might be tempting on sick days can cause problems with your metal braces or clear braces, so it is important to know what to skip.
Crunchy Snacks
Chips, crackers, crusty breads, and pretzels can be painful on tender teeth and risky for your brackets. Even if you normally enjoy them, it is better to wait until you are not sick.
Sticky Foods
This includes caramel, taffy, gummies, and anything that clings to your teeth. Sticky foods can pull on wires, get lodged around brackets, and make cleaning harder, which is especially frustrating when you don’t feel well.
Very Sugary Treats
When you are sick, sugar cravings can hit hard, but try to resist. Sweets feed harmful bacteria in your mouth and can increase your risk of cavities. With braces, it’s already more difficult to clean your teeth thoroughly, and sugar makes it even more challenging to protect your enamel.
Acidic Drinks
Orange juice, soda, and sports drinks can irritate your throat and wear down enamel, especially around brackets. If you really want something flavored, dilute it with water and rinse your mouth afterward.
How to Care for Your Braces While You’re Sick
Eating is only part of managing orthodontic care when you are not feeling well. Dr. Jordyn Middleberg reminds Philadelphia patients that sick days are when oral hygiene matters even more. When your immune system is fighting hard, keeping your mouth clean helps reduce inflammation and protects your teeth and gums.
Rinse Often
If you are dealing with congestion, mouth breathing, or vomiting, rinsing with water or saltwater helps wash away bacteria and soothe irritated tissues. A gentle rinse can also help remove food bits from around your brackets.
Keep Brushing Even When You Feel Tired
It is tempting to skip brushing when you are exhausted, but this is when plaque can build up quickly. Try to brush after meals and before bed, and use fluoride toothpaste for extra protection.
Stay Hydrated
Drinking enough water helps you recover faster and prevents dry mouth, which can make your braces feel more irritating. Hydration also helps keep food from sticking to your metal braces and clear braces.
Use Orthodontic Wax if Needed
If your cheeks or lips feel more sensitive while you are sick, adding a bit of wax to sharper spots on your braces provides quick relief. You can pick up wax at your local pharmacy or stop by Rittenhouse Orthodontics if you need more.
What to Do if You Have a Braces Problem During Illness
Sometimes being sick makes you even more aware of discomfort from your braces. A loose bracket or poking wire can feel even worse when you are already run down. That’s why Rittenhouse Orthodontics offers helpful guidance on handling orthodontic issues at home. If something feels urgent, give us a call so we can get you in for an appointment quickly.
When to Call Your Orthodontist
Most sick day issues can be managed at home with soft foods, good hydration, and extra oral care. But if your braces are causing pain beyond normal soreness, or you cannot eat comfortably even with soft foods, it is a good idea to reach out to Dr. Jordyn Middleberg. She can help determine whether you need an adjustment or if the discomfort is simply a mix of illness and routine orthodontic pressure.
Rittenhouse Orthodontics – Your Stop for Comfortable Braces Care
Being sick is never fun, but choosing the right foods and knowing what to avoid can make a huge difference. Supporting your body with soothing meals and taking a few extra steps to care for your braces keeps your treatment on track and helps you feel more comfortable. Rittenhouse Orthodontics is always here to help.
Ready to get started on your treatment today? Schedule your free consultation at our Philadelphia location–we’d love to hear from you!