Canker Sores and Braces? Let’s Prevent them!

As part of our dietary series, Christen has put together a list with ADA about things that can help prevent and manage canker sores which some patients get while being in braces.

There is no cure for canker sores but you may be able to reduce how often you get them by avoiding foods that irritate your mouth. Spicy foods, acidic foods like pickles and sauerkraut, and citrus fruits can cause irritation. If you have canker sores, help ease discomfort by eating bland foods until your sores heal, such as: 

·         low-fat milk and other dairy foods

·         cooked, canned and frozen vegetables

·         mashed potatoes (fortify by mixing in powdered milk to boost nutrition)

·         cooked or canned fruit, including applesauce

·         hot cereals like oatmeal and cream of wheat (make with milk instead of water to boost nutrition)

·         soft cooked and shredded chicken, beef and pork

·         creamy-style peanut butter

·         pudding and custard

·         scrambled or fried eggs 

·         tofu

·         soup 

If you get mouth sores, try these tips to make eating easier and speed healing:

·         Choose cool or room temperature foods.

·         Blend and moisten dry or solid foods.

·         Drink through a straw to bypass mouth sores. 

·         Eat high protein, high calorie foods to speed up healing time. For example, add protein powder to milk shakes or powdered dry milk to fortify mashed potatoes and soups.