This is the time of year when many of us make new year’s resolutions and plans for self-improvement. Besides the usual ones of better diet and fitness, focusing on better dental care can’t be overlooked as a great goal. Setting a better example for your children and taking better care of your own teeth can make all the difference in your dental and overall health.
We thought of a resolution that you might want to challenge yourself with as well. How about more variety in food preparation for yourself or any family members that have traditional braces?
Once traditional dental treatment begins, we explain the complete instructions and provide a comprehensive list regarding foods to avoid. Some of those foods include: ice, hard candy, popcorn, and all sticky foods (ie: gum, taffy,and caramel). Many emergency appointments can be avoided to repair damaged braces or appliances by carefully following our instructions. But, after looking at what you shouldn’t eat, many would benefit from more ideas on what you can safely eat.
Google and the internet can be a great help to finding braces-friendly recipes, but there are also books available at Amazon.com or from your local bookstore that can be a great gift for yourself or someone that you know is struggling with meal preparation. Two of these books are listed below with a brief synopsis and links.
The Braces Cookbook: Recipes You (and Your Orthodontist) Will Love (Amazon)
“Presenting 50 comfort food recipes developed by and for braces wearers, this indispensable collection offers real food choices that the whole family will enjoy. This updated edition provides sensitive substitutions for classic favorites and new recipe additions that even kids can make, including five new snack ideas. Sections for packing lunches, comfort care, and cooking tips have been greatly expanded to give patients and their families everything they need to support positive orthodontic experiences. Also included are updated web resources, fun dental and orthodontic trivia, an orthodontic terms glossary, and reminders about foods to avoid.”
The Braces Cookbook 2: Comfort Food with a Gourmet Touch (Amazon)
“Created specifically for adults with braces, this cookbook features a full range of flavor-filled dishes through easy, stay-soft recipes and comfort food tips for any kind of braces—metal, ceramic, behind-the-teeth, or aligner-type. The recipes range from basic ideas made from around-the-house ingredients to meals with true gourmet touches, including breakfasts, appetizers, desserts, entrees, and vegetarian dishes. This book is ideal for eating well at home, on the road, and at the office. Savvy tips for being confident in braces at work are also included.”
Happy cooking and Happy New Year!
