Getting braces is a big milestone, especially for children and teens. While the long-term reward is a healthier, straighter smile, the short-term reality often means giving up some favourite foods - particularly chewy or crunchy sweets.

Sticky lollies, hard biscuits, and chewy treats can damage brackets and wires, leading to unwanted delays and emergency visits. But here’s the good news: braces don’t mean all treats are off-limits. There are still plenty of delicious, braces-safe alternatives to enjoy.

In this article, we’ll explore what to eat with braces, share some tooth-friendly tips, and offer a few soft, homemade treat recipes to satisfy sweet cravings without compromising your orthodontic treatment.

Better alternatives to sticky sweets

Certain treats - like caramels, toffees, and jelly lollies - can bend wires or even dislodge brackets. Instead of traditional lollies, try:

• Smoothies made with fresh fruit, yoghurt, or even a small scoop of ice cream
• Soft baked goods, like muffins or sponge cakes
• Dairy-based treats, such as custard, rice pudding, or soft cheese and fruit

These options are kinder on your teeth and easier to clean around your brackets.

Why sugar is more harmful with braces

Sugar can damage teeth even without braces, but with brackets and wires creating more hard-to-reach spaces, bacteria have even more places to hide.

Sugary foods feed bacteria that produce acid, which wears down enamel and leads to decay. When you’re wearing braces, it’s essential to brush thoroughly, cleaning around wires, brackets, and along the gumline to keep your teeth healthy throughout treatment.

Braces-friendly sweet recipes

Here are three easy, soft recipes that are perfect for braces wearers - and the whole family.

Applesauce Muffins

Ingredients:

• 1½ cups flour
• ½ cup sugar
• 1 tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• ¼ tsp salt
• ½ cup applesauce
• ¼ cup vegetable oil
• ¼ cup milk
• 1 egg

Instructions:

• Preheat oven to 175°C and line a muffin tin.
• Mix dry ingredients in one bowl and wet ingredients in another.
• Combine both mixtures, mix gently, and pour into muffin tins.
• Bake for 18–20 minutes until golden and soft.

Moist and gentle on teeth - great for sensitive mouths.

Rice Pudding

Ingredients

• ½ cup rice
• 2 cups milk
• ¼ cup sugar
• ¼ tsp vanilla
• Optional: cinnamon

Instructions

• Cook rice in milk and sugar on low heat, stirring often, for 30–40 minutes.
• Add vanilla and a sprinkle of cinnamon.
• Serve warm or chilled.

Comforting, creamy, and braces-approved.

Vanilla Microwave Mug Cake

Ingredients

• 4 tbsp flour
• 2 tbsp sugar
• ¼ tsp baking powder
• 3 tbsp milk
• 1 tbsp vegetable oil or melted butter
• ¼ tsp vanilla
• Optional: soft fruits or mini chocolate chips

Instructions

• Combine dry ingredients in a mug.
• Add wet ingredients and mix until smooth.
• Microwave for 60–90 seconds.
• Let cool for 2–3 minutes before enjoying.

A quick, soft treat with no crunch or sticky aftermath.

Final thoughts: braces don't mean missing out

Braces may rule out some sweets, but they don’t mean your child has to skip treat time altogether. With a few easy swaps and some creative recipes, your family can still enjoy delicious snacks that are safe, satisfying, and smiles-approved.

Looking for more braces-friendly tips? Book a free consultation with the team at Angle House Orthodontics. We’re here to support you and your child with personalised care and practical advice - every step of the way.