Navigating food choices while undergoing orthodontic treatment can feel overwhelming. But with a little guidance and creativity, you can still enjoy delicious, nourishing meals. Whether you’re at home or dining out in Clinton Township or Grosse Pointe, MI, eating healthy with braces is completely possible—and even fun!
Lifetime Orthodontics understands that your food choices play a big role in your oral health and overall wellness during orthodontic treatment. That’s why we’ve created this go-to guide to help you make smart eating decisions that support your smile without sacrificing flavor.
Eating Healthy with Braces: Smart Food Tips
When you’re wearing braces from Lifetime Orthodontics, it’s all about choosing foods that are nutritious and gentle on brackets and wires. Here are some smart go‑to foods to keep your smile healthy:
- Soft fruits and veggies: bananas, ripe melons, steamed broccoli, avocado
- Lean proteins: poached chicken, slow‑cooked turkey, soft tofu, fish
- Whole grains: oatmeal, quinoa, soft tortillas, whole wheat pasta
- Dairy & dairy alternatives: yogurt, cottage cheese, smooth nut milks
- Soups and smoothies: vegetable soups, blended smoothies to pack in nutrients
- Avoid sticky or crunchy treats: no caramels, nuts, hard chips, or gummy candies
Dr. Wesley recommends eating soft, wholesome foods to help prevent brackets from popping off and keep your orthodontic treatment on track. These foods also support oral health and healing, perfect for maintaining progress during treatment.
Your Local Guide to Healthy Braces-Friendly Eating
If you live near Clinton Township or Grosse Pointe, you’re in luck. Our neighborhoods offer a variety of restaurants that serve braces-friendly, nutrient-rich foods. Here are some top local options to consider:
1. Beyond Juice – Grosse Pointe, MI
Smoothies are a braces-wearer’s best friend. Beyond Juice offers smoothies and bowls made from fresh fruit, veggies, and protein add-ins. Try the Antioxidant Berry smoothie or a custom protein shake. Just skip add-ons like seeds or granola that might get stuck in your brackets.
2. The Big Salad – Clinton Township, MI
You might think salads are a no-go, but at The Big Salad, you can build your own bowl with braces-friendly toppings like shredded chicken, soft cheeses, avocado, roasted veggies, and finely chopped greens. Choose a vinaigrette dressing and skip anything crunchy like croutons or raw carrots.
3. Harvest Pizzeria – Grosse Pointe Park, MI
Pizza can be tricky with braces, but Harvest Pizzeria offers soft, wood-fired pies with wholesome toppings. Go for a veggie pizza with a thin crust and avoid thick, chewy crusts. The roasted garlic and spinach pizza is full of flavor and easy on your braces when cut into bite-size pieces.
4. Deshi Kitchen Indian Cuisine – Clinton Township, MI
Indian food is a great braces-friendly option. Soft rice dishes, stewed lentils, and tender proteins like butter chicken are all flavorful and easy to chew. Skip the crunchy papadum and opt for naan bread if it’s warm and soft.
5. City Kitchen – Grosse Pointe Woods, MI
This upscale American bistro features fish, grilled vegetables, and soft pastas that are braces-approved. Their grilled salmon with mashed sweet potatoes is nutrient-rich and easy on your hardware. Ask your server for recommendations that are gentle on your smile.
6. Pita Way – Clinton Township, MI
Build a soft pita wrap or rice bowl filled with grilled chicken, hummus, and soft veggies. The garlic spread adds tons of flavor, and you can customize your bowl to avoid crunchy toppings. It’s a flavorful, filling way to stick to eating healthy with braces.
7. Sprout House – Grosse Pointe Park, MI
This health-conscious deli and juice bar is a local gem. From soft rice and lentil bowls to creamy soups and smoothies, there are tons of braces-friendly options. Their fresh veggie soup and protein smoothies are perfect for lunch or a quick snack.
8. Cacao Tree Cafe – Royal Oak, MI
While just a short drive from Clinton Township, Cacao Tree Cafe is worth the trip. This raw, organic cafe specializes in plant-based fare that’s gentle on braces. Try their soft zucchini noodles with cashew cream sauce or a nutrient-dense smoothie. Everything is made fresh and full of flavor, so you can feel great about eating healthy with braces.
Let Lifetime Orthodontics Be Your Partner in Health
Dr. Wesley and our team will guide you through every stage of treatment, from appliance care to food tips. Our goal is to make sure your treatment is as effective, comfortable, and enjoyable as possible.
If you ever have questions about what to eat or how to navigate local dining spots with braces, we’re here to help. Contact us today to schedule your free consultation in Clinton Township or Grosse Pointe and start your smile transformation the healthy way!