There’s a common misconception that orthodontic treatment means all of your favorite foods are off limits. This couldn’t be further from the truth! There are plenty of cool, satisfying summer treats with braces that will keep your taste buds happy and your orthodontic treatment on track.
303 Smiles is all about helping families from Greenwood Village, Centennial, Littleton, and Englewood enjoy life to the fullest during orthodontic treatment. Whether you’re new to braces or a seasoned pro, these tasty ideas will help you get your sweet fix.
Disclaimer: Consume Sweet Stuff in Moderation
Sugar is always a risky substance when it comes to your oral health, which is why moderation and thorough cleaning are so important. It doesn’t have to be completely removed from your diet, but it also shouldn’t be too recurrent, either.
With traditional braces, you can run the risk of sugar getting stuck in your brackets and leading to decay. With Invisalign, a similar effect can occur if you aren’t rinsing off your aligners between meals.
Dr. Straffon and our team can help give you advice if you have any questions about sugar intake during treatment, but everyone deserves a treat now and then!
1. Smoothies & Milkshakes
When it comes to summer treats with braces, smoothies and milkshakes are the ultimate win. They’re cold, creamy, and totally customizable. Plus, they require zero chewing, making them perfect for teeth after an adjustment.
Smoothie & Milkshake Ideas:
- Strawberry banana smoothie with yogurt
- Peanut butter banana protein shake
- Chocolate milkshake with soft-serve ice cream
- Mango and pineapple tropical smoothie
- Berry blend with almond milk and honey
Avoid using additives like whole seeds, nuts, or hard chunks of frozen fruit in your recipes. Instead, stick to soft ingredients that blend easily and won’t get stuck in your braces. Whether you’re sipping them poolside or enjoying a sweet snack after lunch, these treats are refreshing and approved by Dr. Straffon.
2. Frozen Yogurt & Soft-Serve Ice Cream
Nothing beats a bowl of frozen yogurt or soft-serve on a hot day! Luckily, this classic treat makes the list of safe summer treats with braces. It’s smooth, soft, and comes in endless flavors.
Topping Ideas (Braces-Safe):
- Sprinkles (soft ones)
- Mini marshmallows
- Whipped cream
- Soft fruits like bananas or strawberries
- Warm caramel drizzle
Skip the hard candies, gummy bears, and nuts—they can wreak havoc on your brackets and wires. Instead, build a braces-safe sundae that satisfies your sweet tooth without putting your smile at risk. And if you’re wearing Invisalign, Invisalign Teen, or Invisalign First, just remember to pop out your aligners before indulging!
3. Pudding, Gelatin, and No-Bake Cheesecake
Craving something cool and creamy? Pudding cups, gelatin desserts, and even no-bake cheesecake can be fantastic summer treats with braces. They’re all naturally gentle on your mouth, easy to prepare, and a hit with patients of all ages.
Tasty Options:
- Chocolate or vanilla pudding cups
- Fruity gelatin in fun shapes
- Soft no-bake cheesecake with graham cracker crust (just make sure the crust is finely ground)
- Yogurt parfaits layered with soft fruits and granola (check that the granola is soft)
These are also great options for kids undergoing early orthodontic treatment or teens with newly placed appliances from 303 Smiles. They’re satisfying, low-risk, and perfect for summer picnics or BBQs.
4. Fruit-Based Treats
Fruit is a summer staple, and many soft fruits are ideal for anyone wearing braces. While you’ll want to skip hard, crunchy fruits like apples unless they’re sliced thinly or cooked, there are tons of soft, juicy options that are braces-friendly.
Braces-Friendly Fruits:
- Watermelon cubes
- Ripe peaches and nectarines (peeled and sliced)
- Seedless grapes
- Sliced bananas
- Blueberries or blackberries (best blended; watch out for seeds!)
Freeze fruit chunks for a DIY popsicle-style snack, or blend them into a fruit slush. These make excellent choices on a hot summer day, and they double as healthy treats that are good for your overall wellness, too. But remember, fruit still contains sugar! So clean well in between.
5. Soft Baked Goods & Frozen Delights
Even with braces, you can still enjoy sweet baked treats—just be sure they’re soft and not sticky or crunchy. Add a cool twist by freezing them or enjoying them chilled.
Ideas for Soft Summer Bakes:
- Soft-baked chocolate chip cookies
- Banana bread or zucchini muffins
- Ice cream sandwiches (made with soft cookies)
- Chilled cake pops
- Mini cupcakes with soft frosting
Avoid anything with caramel, toffee, hard crusts, or nuts. When in doubt, ask Dr. Straffon or a team member at 303 Smiles—we’re happy to help you sort out what’s safe and what to skip!
Getting to The Good Stuff
So please, don’t deny yourself or your kids a little reward during the summer months! Just consume these options safely and smartly, and you shouldn’t run into any issues. We hope to see you soon in our Greenwood Village office and talk treats!