As any parent knows, having a child with braces can come with a host of challenges, including finding suitable snacks that won’t damage or get stuck in their braces. But with so many options on the market, it can be hard to know which snacks are best.
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at some of the top snacks for kids with braces, including those that are not only safe but also nutritious and delicious.
From crunchy veggies to soft cheeses, we’ve got you covered with plenty of options to keep your child’s smile healthy and happy throughout their orthodontic treatment! Let’s get started.
1. Bananas
Bananas are generally considered safe for kids with braces to eat as long as they are cut into small pieces or mashed up. Eating a whole banana can be challenging for kids with braces, as the fruit can get stuck in the wires or brackets.
Bananas are also a great source of vitamins and minerals, such as potassium and vitamin C, which can promote oral health and overall health.
2. Kiwis
Kiwis are soft, but they still have small seeds that could damage braces or get stuck between the brackets and wires. Cutting the kiwi into small pieces before eating can reduce the risk of this happening.
3. Ripe Melons
It’s important to choose melons that are ripe and soft enough to be easily chewed without causing discomfort or damage to their braces. Some good options to consider include cantaloupe, watermelon, honeydew, and Galia melon.
Cut the melons into bite-sized pieces to make them easier to eat and reduce the risk of damage.
4. Raspberries
Much like kiwis, the small seeds in raspberries can be a frustration for kids with braces as they can easily get stuck.
Slice the raspberries into small pieces and get your child to rinse their mouth with water after eating them to avoid seeds. You can also opt for frozen raspberries, as these are usually softer and have fewer seeds.
5. Blueberries
Blueberries are a relatively soft fruit, so they should be safe to eat even with braces. However, they do contain small seeds.
To minimize the risk of these seeds getting stuck, you may want to consider slicing the blueberries in half before giving them to your child to eat.
6. Blackberries
Blackberries can be quite juicy, which can cause staining on the brackets or wires of the braces.
You can suggest that your child eat blackberries with a fork or spoon instead of directly biting into them.
7. Grapes
Grapes can be a healthy and tasty snack option for kids with braces, but there are some precautions that should be taken to avoid any potential issues.
Make sure the grapes are seedless to prevent any damage to the braces or irritation to the mouth. You can also cut the grapes into smaller pieces to make them easier to chew and prevent any damage to the braces or discomfort for the child.
8. Mandarin Oranges
The softness of mandarin oranges makes them a healthy snack for kids with braces, and you also have the choice of fresh or canned, which can be particularly convenient.
9. Cooked Carrots
Cooked carrots- be they steamed or roasted- can be a great snack for those with braces, though they can also benefit from being cut into smaller, bite-sized pieces.
10. Green Beans
Much like with carrots, cooked green beans are a soft snack that is as tasty as it is healthy.
Make sure they are completely soft before your child snacks on them to avoid any difficulty chewing.
11. Shelled Peas
Properly prepared peas that are cooked thoroughly with the shell completely removed can make for another healthy veggie treat for kids with braces.
12. Squash
Squash can be a great snack option for kids with braces because it is soft and easy to chew.
Different types of squash have different textures and hardness, so it’s best to choose the softer varieties.
Some great options for soft squash include butternut squash, delicata squash and acorn squash.
13. Sliced Cucumbers
Sliced cucumbers are soft and easy to chew, and can help soothe any discomfort or soreness caused by the braces.
Cucumbers are also a healthy snack that can provide important vitamins and minerals.
Make sure to slice the cucumbers thinly or even grate them so that chewing is as easy as possible.
14. Cottage Cheese
The softness of cottage cheese makes it a great choice for kids with braces. Just make sure that it isn’t too chunky to avoid it getting stuck in their braces!
15. Applesauce
Much like cottage cheese, applesauce is another super soft food choice that can be easy for kids with braces to chew on.
Make sure that the applesauce is smooth and free of any chunks, as these can get stuck in the braces and be difficult to remove.
16. Pita Bread
Pita is a soft kind of bread that can be paired with various other soft foods- such as hummus, salsa or tzatziki-, making it great for kids with braces.
17. Soft Tortilla Cheese Quesadilla
Make your own soft tortilla cheese quesadilla with shredded cheese, butter or oil for cooking and soft tortillas and voilà! You have a dish well suited for braces that is also superbly tasty.
18. Mashed Potatoes
The softness of mashed potatoes makes them an excellent choice for those with braces, but be careful that the potatoes are not too hot, as hot foods can cause discomfort for those with braces.
19. Smoothies
Smoothies can be a great snack option for kids with braces, as they are easy to eat and won’t damage their braces.
Some tips to ensure that your smoothies stay braces friendly include avoiding hard ingredients, using a straw whilst drinking and avoiding ice cubes.
20. Soft Granola Bars
Soft granola bars can be a great snack option for kids with braces, as they are gentle on the teeth and won’t cause damage to braces or wires.
Consider making your own granola bars and including ingredients such as honey or smooth peanut butter to keep them well suited for braces.
21. Cheese Cubes
Although cheese cubes are generally a good choice, it’s important to remember that some types of cheese are harder than others, so it’s a good idea to choose a softer cheese like mozzarella or brie rather than a harder cheese like cheddar or Parmesan.
22. Tuna Salad
When it comes to tuna salad as a snack for kids with braces, make sure to use soft tuna that is packed in water or oil and is flaked or chunked rather than solid.
You can also mix in a soft, creamy dressing- such as mayonnaise or sour cream, to help hold the ingredients together.
23. Scrambled Eggs
When cooking scrambled eggs for kids with braces, it’s important to keep in mind that they may have difficulty chewing and biting into larger pieces.
To avoid this, cook the eggs thoroughly, but don’t make them too hard by overcooking them.
Scramble them well to avoid any lumpiness and then break the eggs up into smaller pieces to be on the safe side.
24. Yogurt
Yogurt can be a great snack option for kids with braces, as it is soft and easy to eat without putting too much pressure on the teeth. Choose the right type of yogurt to ensure that it does not harm the braces or teeth.
Opt for plain yogurt rather than flavored yogurts that are high in sugar, as sugar can increase the risk of tooth decay and cavities. You can add natural sweeteners like honey or fruit to the plain yogurt for flavor.
You will also want to avoid yogurts that contain chunks of fruit, nuts, or granola.
25. Soft Pretzels
When it comes to soft pretzels for kids with braces, it’s important to choose a pretzel that is not too hard or chewy. This can be challenging as traditional soft pretzels can be quite dense and chewy.
Consider soft pretzel bites, pretzel sticks, or even your own homemade soft pretzels to ensure maximum softness.
26. Cooked Pasta
When cooking pasta for kids with braces, there are a few things to keep in mind to make sure that the pasta is easy for them to eat and won’t cause any discomfort, such as cooking the pasta al dente, cutting it into small pieces and serving it with a soft sauce.
27. Soft Boiled Eggs
As they are easy to chew and swallow, soft-boiled eggs are also a good choice for kids with braces.
28. Chicken Salad
Opt for diced chicken when making a chicken salad for kids with braces to avoid any difficulties with bigger pieces getting stuck in their braces.
29. Macaroni And Cheese
Macaroni and cheese can be a good option for kids with braces, as it is a soft and easy-to-chew food that doesn’t require a lot of biting or chewing.
That being said, it’s important to keep in mind that macaroni and cheese is also a high-carbohydrate and high-fat food, which can increase the risk of tooth decay if consumed in excess.
30. Hummus
Hummus can be a great option as it is a soft and smooth food that doesn’t require a lot of biting or chewing. Hummus is made from mashed chickpeas, olive oil, and other seasonings, and it has a creamy texture that can be easy for kids with braces to eat.
31. Peanut Butter And Jelly Sandwiches
As long as you use a soft bread and spread a thin layer of peanut butter and jelly when making them to minimize stickiness, peanut butter and jelly sandwiches can be a tasty treat for kids with braces.
32. Soft Sushi
Soft sushi can be a good option as long as the ingredients are not too chewy or sticky. Soft sushi typically contains cooked or raw fish, avocado, cucumber, and other soft vegetables wrapped in seaweed and rice.
Avoid sushi rolls that contain chewy ingredients, like octopus, squid, or eel.
33. Soft Crackers
Soft crackers can be a good option as they are generally easy to chew and don’t require a lot of biting force.
When choosing crackers for a child with braces, look for options that are low in sugar and salt, and that don’t contain any hard or crunchy ingredients.
Some good options for soft crackers include saltine crackers, oyster crackers, and rice crackers.
34. Rice Cakes
The soft nature of rice cakes can make them the perfect snack to indulge in for kids with braces, but it is crucial to choose the right type of rice cake.
Look for soft and thin rice cakes and avoid anything too flavored.
35. Fruit Cups
As long as you pick the right type of fruit, fruit cups are another excellent choice of snack for kids with braces that can fit perfectly into a lunch box.
Choose soft fruits and avoid any fruit cups with syrup to avoid any stickiness.
36. Soft Cookies
Soft cookies can be a good treat as long as they are not too chewy or sticky.
Avoid cookies such as those with caramel or toffee bits as well as those coated in icing or chocolate, as these can easily become lodged within the braces.
37. Baked Beans
Baked beans can be a nutritious and delicious option for kids with braces, as they are soft.
Make sure to cook the beans until they are soft and avoid any large chunks or skins on your beans.
38. Quinoa
Quinoa is another healthy option, but is also one that needs to be cooked until completely soft before it becomes suitable for kids with braces.
39. Cooked Lentils
Lentils are soft, easy to chew, and packed with protein and fiber, making them another healthy choice as a snack for kids with braces.
40. Falafel
Large falafel balls may be difficult for kids with braces to chew, so consider making smaller falafel balls that are easier to eat.
41. Boiled Potatoes
Boiled potatoes might not sound particularly interesting, but they are great for braces thanks to their softness.
These potatoes work well with meals, but can also be used to snack on. To make them a little more interesting, add some butter or seasoning.
42. Baked Sweet Potato
If your child wants something a little more flavorful than boiled potatoes, then baked sweet potatoes are another braces friendly snack.
43. Soft Rice
Soft rice is usually not considered a problem for kids with braces, as long as it is cooked well and not too sticky.
44. Couscous
Couscous is a small, granular pasta made from semolina wheat and water, and is a soft food that isn’t usually a problem for kids with braces.
Fine couscous is softer and easier to chew than larger-grain varieties.
45. Zucchini Noodles
Zucchini noodles are a popular alternative to traditional pasta made from zucchini that has been spiralized into long, thin strands.
Zucchini noodles are a soft food suitable for kids with braces, as long as they are cooked well and not too firm.
46. Fish Sticks
Some fish sticks are harder and crunchier than others, but mostly they are soft and well suited for kids with braces.
If you are unsure, you can always cut the fish sticks into smaller pieces.
47. Soup
Soup can be a good option for kids with braces, as long as it isn’t too hot and does not contain any hard or crunchy ingredients.
Use soft ingredients, and consider blending the soup into a smoother consistency if you need to.
48. French Toast Sticks
French toast sticks are a yummy treat that can be eaten by kids with braces so long as you ensure that the bread used to make them is soft, such as brioche.
49. Mini Corndogs
Mini corn dogs can be a tricky food for kids with braces, as the hard outer layer of cornbread could potentially damage the braces. However, they can still be enjoyed as long as they are made from soft cornbread and are cut into smaller pieces.
50. Banana Bread
With banana bread, choose a particularly soft recipe so that your kids will be able to enjoy it.
A softer recipe should lead to banana bread that is particularly moist and easier for kids to eat.
51. Mini Quiché
So long as it has a soft crust and a filling that isn’t too crunchy- such as spinach, cheese or mushrooms-, mini quiches can make for a tasty treat for kids with braces.
52. Baked Cheese And Turkey Sliders
Turkey is a particularly soft meat, so as long as you keep the bread and the cheese of this meal soft, it can work well as a meal for kids with braces.
53. French Fries
French fries aren’t usually recommended for kids with braces, as they are often hard and crunchy.
That being said, kids with braces can enjoy them if you cut them into smaller pieces, or if you bake them rather than fry them (making them French Bakes!).
54. Crustless Pizza
Removing the crust from pizza can instantly turn it into a braces friendly snack, so long as you use soft toppings such as sliced meats and cooked vegetables.
55. Sliced Ham
Slicing ham thin can be a savory treat for kids with braces, though opt for the highest quality ham as it is minimally processed and free from added sugars or other harmful ingredients.
56. Sliced Turkey
The same rules apply for sliced turkey as for sliced ham, thanks to how soft and easy the meat is to chew.
57. Sliced Bologna
Sliced bologna is also the same as ham and turkey, being another meat that is particularly soft.
Just remember that a lot of these kinds of meats can contain added sugars, so it’s important to choose a high-quality, minimally processed meats.
58. Avocado
Avocado is superbly soft, which makes it a good choice for children who may have difficulty biting due to their braces.
Avocados are also packed with nutrients, including healthy fats, fiber, and vitamins.
59. Egg Salad
To make an egg salad better suited for kids with braces, make sure the eggs are mashed as well as possible and utilize other soft ingredients.
60. Jello
The softness of jello makes it a must for kids with braces, so long as it is made with a smooth, uniform consistency and is not too sticky or hard to chew.
61. Canned Peaches
Canned peaches that are cut into small pieces and have a soft and syrupy texture are not only a delicious choice, they are also a nutritious fruit for kids to enjoy.
62. Sloppy Joe’s
Sloppy Joe’s are known for their soft and “sloppy” meat, which makes it well suited for kids with braces.
63. Chili
Chili is a hearty and flavorful dish that can be a good source of protein, fiber, and nutrients for your child’s diet, but it is also suitable for kids with braces so long as soft beans and veggies are used along with tender meat.
64. String Cheese
When it comes to snacks for lunch boxes, string cheese is a well known one that is suitable for kids with braces.
String cheese is a good source of protein and calcium and kids can eat it as intended or can cut it up to make it easier to chew.
65. Gogurt
Much like yogurt, the gogurt lunchbox snack is suitable for kids with braces, but it’s important to make sure that they eat it carefully as the texture can be sticky and may get caught in the braces.
66. Peanut Butter
Peanut butter is a good source of protein and healthy fats, but its sticky texture can be difficult to manage with braces, causing discomfort or even damage.
To make it easier for kids with braces to enjoy, spread the peanut butter thinly and encourage smaller bites.
67. Oatmeal
Oatmeal is super soft for kids with braces, but it is also a nutritious source of fiber, protein, and other essential vitamins and minerals.
68. Pudding
Pudding can be a great food choice for kids with braces as it is soft, smooth, and easy to swallow, whilst also being a tasty snack.
Make sure that the pudding used has the right smooth and creamy consistency and is not too thick or thin.
69. Pancakes
A soft pancake recipe that isn’t too thick is another excellent choice for a snack or for a breakfast meal.
Make sure that the batter is soft, such as one that includes buttermilk or yogurt.
70. Waffles
Much like pancakes, waffles can be a tasty choice so long as they aren’t too crispy, as this can make them difficult to for braces users to eat.
71. Tater Tots
Tater tots that are baked until soft are a great savory snack for kids with braces that works well with other softer foods such as mashed potatoes.
72. Mini Muffins
For another sweet treat, mini muffins are great, so long as soft ingredients are used- such as bananas or applesauce- rather than ingredients such as seeds or nuts.
73. Shrimp
For kids who love seafood, shrimp is another good choice for those with braces.
Some top tips include choosing peeled and deveined shrimp, and serving it up with soft sides.
74. Crab Cakes
Sticking with the seafood theme, crab cakes are also well suited thanks to their soft textures.
Some crab cakes can be crispier than others, so look for those that are easy to break apart.
75. Tuna
Tuna is another tasty seafood treat for those with braces, but make sure that the fish isn’t too stringy or chewy by opting for the soft and flaky kind.
76. Salmon
Salmon is another fish that is known for being soft, though it can easily become hard if it is not cooked enough.
Remove the skin and the bones of the salmon to ensure that it is as easy to chew as possible.
77. Meatballs
If you choose to make your own meatball for kids with braces, choose ground meat that isn’t too lean as it has a higher fat content, which makes it more tender and easier to chew than leaner meat.
Make the meatballs small and cook them thoroughly to avoid any tough, undercooked areas.
78. Veggie Burgers
Veggie burgers are better suited than regular burgers for kids with braces due to veggie burger patties not being quite as dense as meat patties.
Some ingredients you can use for veggie burger patties include cooked lentils, chickpeas or mashed sweet potatoes.
79. Steamed Broccoli With Butter
When it comes to a nutritious vegetable for kids that is well suited for those with braces, steamed broccoli is a fantastic option.
Steam the broccoli until it is tender, and don’t forget the butter for a burst of flavor.
80. Steamed Cauliflower With Butter
Is cauliflower more your kids choice of veggie? Then you can opt for steamed cauliflower with butter rather than broccoli for a similar savory, healthy snack!
81. Baked Apples
Apples aren’t usually the best choice for kids with braces due to how crunchy they are, but baking them is a great way to make them softer.
82. Baked Pears
Pears are also a difficult fruit for braces, hence why baking them is the best option to allow them to enjoy the healthy snack without worrying about their braces.
83. Graham Crackers
Graham crackers tend to be soft and not too sticky, but make sure to look for particularly soft brands and avoid any crackers that have a hard to chew topping or filling.
84. Goldfish Crackers
These crackers are a bit trickier than graham crackers as they are smaller, but they can still be enjoyed by kids with braces as long as you look for soft options or ones that are baked rather than fried.
85. Protein Shakes
So long as you opt for a protein shake without nuts or sees and that isn’t too thick or sticky, they can make for a convenient and nutritious snack.
86. Soft Cereal Bars
There are all sorts of cereal bars out there, with the best for kids with braces being those that aren’t too crunchy, are low in sugar and don’t have any sticky fillings or coatings.
87. Layered Bean Dip
Layered bean dip can be a tasty snack option for kids with braces.
Make sure the beans are soft and well cooked to minimize the risk of damaging the braces, and avoid any ingredients that are hard or crunchy, such as tortilla chips or raw vegetables.
88. Rice Pudding
Rice pudding can make for a delicious sweet treat for those with braces, as long as it isn’t too thick and does not contain too many lumps or crunchy ingredients.
89. Zucchini Bread
Much like the other bready options on this list, zucchini bread can be suitable for braces, but you will need to ensure that it isn’t too dense.
90. Soft Potato Chips
Potato chips that tend to be softer include crinkle cut chips, as well as chips that are made from sweet potatoes or other root vegetables.
You can also try baking your own potato chips so that you can create your own level of softness.
91. Ice Cream
Soft serve ice cream is a particularly good choice for kids with braces thanks to its smooth nature. Just make sure that they don’t indulge in it too much!
92. Marshmallow Fluff
Marshmallow fluff is a soft and creamy spread that is easy to eat and won’t get stuck in braces, but it is another particularly sweet snack that should only be consumed as a treat to avoid cavities.
93. Gelato
Gelato is a softer and less dense frozen treat than ice cream, which makes it a good option for kids with braces.
Be cautious of any mix-ins that may be hard or crunchy, such as nuts, candies, or cookie pieces
94. Nutella
Another treat snack, the smooth creaminess of Nutella makes it suitable for kids with braces, but its high sugar content means kids should be limited when it comes to how much they eat.
95. Guacamole
Guacamole is generally safe for kids with braces to eat, as it is a soft and creamy dip that doesn’t contain any hard ingredients.
Offer your guacamole with soft foods like sliced vegetables, soft tortillas, or as a topping for soft tacos.
96. Frozen Yogurt
Frozen yogurt is softer than regular ice cream and doesn’t contain as much sugar, making for a treat that is better suited for kids with braces for more health conscious parents and guardians.
97. Popsicles
Popsicles can be a good option for kids with braces, as they are a soft and cold treat that can soothe any discomfort or pain caused by the braces.
When selecting popsicles, choose ones that are free of any hard or crunchy bits and have a smooth texture
98. Mousse
This soft dessert is another one well suited for braces, so long as you choose flavors that don’t contain any hard or crunchy mix-ins.
99. Soft Cheese Spread
Soft cheese spread can be a good snack option for kids with braces, as it is usually soft and easy to eat.
100. Sponge Cake
Cake can be a tough one for kids with braces, but sponge cake is your best bet due to the fluffy texture and the lack of stickiness and denseness.
101. Cupcakes
Last but not least, this final dessert treat can be a good dessert option for kids with braces if they are made with a soft and fluffy cake and a soft frosting.
Cupcakes with hard or crunchy toppings such as nuts or hard candies are not recommended.
Choose cupcakes with a soft cake texture and a frosting that is easy to chew, such as whipped cream or cream cheese frosting.
Final Thoughts
Finding the right snacks for kids with braces can be a challenging task. It is crucial to choose soft, easy-to-chew foods that won’t damage the braces or cause discomfort.
Some of the best snack options for kids with braces include yogurt, applesauce, soft fruits, cooked vegetables, cheese, and smoothies. Avoid hard, sticky, or crunchy foods that can get stuck in the braces or damage them.
By providing your child with braces-friendly snacks and meals, you can help them maintain their oral health and ensure that their braces treatment goes smoothly.
Have you ever made something so delicious that you wished you could savor it forever?
Only to find that the recipe has now mysteriously vanished from your phone and the entirety of the internet. Yep, there’s not much more painful than that.
Hi, my name is Mark Williams and I have been infatuated with cooking since I was young. I would beg my mother to pull a chair up to the counter so I could watch what she was doing.
