Dealing with braces can make eating a bit tricky for kids, especially when they’re getting used to new adjustments. It’s important to find foods that are gentle on their mouths to avoid discomfort and make mealtime more enjoyable. To help with this, we’ve put together a list of 23 easy-to-eat foods that are soft and will help your child stay comfortable and satisfied while their braces settle in.
Blueberry Pancakes
Blueberry pancakes are a great choice for kids with braces because they’re soft and fluffy. The blueberries add a bit of sweetness without any hard textures, making them easy to enjoy. This meal works for breakfast or even dinner when chewing feels tough.
Get the Recipe: Blueberry Pancakes
Cream Of Celery Soup
Cream of celery soup is a simple and smooth dish that’s easy on braces. The tender celery blends into a creamy broth that’s gentle on teeth and full of flavor. It’s a comforting option that doesn’t need much effort to eat.
Get the Recipe: Cream Of Celery Soup
Egg Muffins
Egg muffins are a versatile, easy-to-make meal for kids with braces. They’re soft, packed with protein, and can be customized with different fillings. This dish works well for breakfast or dinner when chewing needs to be kept simple.
Get the Recipe: Egg Muffins
Creamy Chickpea Tomato Soup
Creamy chickpea tomato soup is a gentle and hearty meal for kids with braces. The blended chickpeas and tomatoes create a smooth texture that’s easy to eat. It’s a quick and satisfying choice when your child needs something soft yet filling.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Chickpea Tomato Soup
Mashed Potatoes
Mashed potatoes are a classic, easy-to-eat side for kids with braces. The smooth and creamy texture is gentle on sensitive teeth and pairs well with almost any meal. This dish is perfect for when braces make eating more challenging.
Get the Recipe: Mashed Potatoes
Potato Corn Chowder
Potato corn chowder is a hearty soup that’s perfect for kids with braces. The soft potatoes and corn blend into a creamy, easy-to-chew broth. This filling soup makes a great meal when eating regular foods feels uncomfortable.
Get the Recipe: Potato Corn Chowder
Loaded Mashed Potato Pancakes
Loaded mashed potato pancakes are a tasty way to turn leftover potatoes into something special. They’re soft inside with a lightly crisped exterior, making them gentle on braces. This dish is a comforting choice when kids need something easy to chew.
Get the Recipe: Loaded Mashed Potato Pancakes
Potato Gnocchi
Potato gnocchi is a soft and tender meal that’s great for kids with braces. These little dumplings are easy to chew and can be topped with any sauce your child likes. They’re an easy dinner option when eating feels hard.
Get the Recipe: Potato Gnocchi
Tomato Soup
Tomato soup is a simple, smooth option that’s gentle on braces. Made quickly in the Instant Pot, this soup offers rich flavor without any tough textures. It’s a comforting meal when chewing regular foods is a challenge.
Get the Recipe: Tomato Soup
Italian Meatball Soup
Italian meatball soup is a warm and satisfying meal that’s perfect for kids with braces. The tender meatballs and savory broth are gentle on sensitive teeth. It’s a great option when your child needs something filling but easy to eat.
Get the Recipe: Italian Meatball Soup
Soy Ginger Salmon
Soy ginger salmon is a soft and flavorful dish that’s easy for kids with braces. The tender fish and light glaze are gentle on teeth, making it a great meal choice. This dish offers a gentle flavor that’s delicious without being tough to chew.
Get the Recipe: Soy Ginger Salmon
Instant Pot Lentil Soup
Instant Pot lentil soup is an easy-to-make dinner that’s perfect for kids with braces. The lentils cook into a soft, flavorful broth that’s gentle on teeth. It’s a simple, nutrient-rich meal that’s satisfying and easy to enjoy.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Lentil Soup
Crockpot Applesauce
Crockpot applesauce is a smooth, comforting snack that’s great for kids with braces. The slow-cooked apples break down into a soft texture that’s easy on sore teeth. It’s a simple snack or side dish that doesn’t cause any discomfort.
Get the Recipe: Crockpot Applesauce
Cacio e Pepe
Cacio e pepe is a simple pasta dish that’s perfect for kids with braces. The soft noodles and creamy cheese sauce make it easy to chew without much effort. It’s a quick and tasty meal when your child needs something gentle.
Get the Recipe: Cacio e Pepe
Miso Glazed Salmon
Miso glazed salmon is a soft, easy-to-eat meal that’s great for kids with braces. The tender salmon and rich miso glaze bring flavor without straining sensitive teeth. This dish makes for a gentle, delicious dinner that’s kind to braces.
Get the Recipe: Miso Glazed Salmon
Creamy Pea Pasta
Creamy pea pasta is a soft, braces-friendly dish that’s easy to make. The tender pasta and creamy sauce are gentle on teeth and full of mild flavor. It’s a comforting meal that’s perfect for a quick dinner when chewing is uncomfortable.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Pea Pasta
Red, White, and Blue Smoothie Bowl
This smoothie bowl is a colorful and easy-to-eat breakfast that’s great for kids with braces. The creamy blend of fruits is gentle on sensitive teeth and makes for a fun, healthy start to the day. It’s a simple option when your child needs something soft and nutritious.
Get the Recipe: Red, White, and Blue Smoothie Bowl
Creamy Tuscan Bean Soup
Creamy Tuscan bean soup is a soft, hearty meal that’s easy for kids with braces. The smooth blend of beans and herbs creates a comforting dish that’s gentle on teeth. It’s a filling option when your child needs something warm and satisfying.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Tuscan Bean Soup
Sweet Potato Turkey Meatballs
Sweet potato turkey meatballs are a great braces-friendly meal that’s easy to chew. The tender mix of sweet potatoes and turkey offers a soft texture that’s gentle on teeth. They’re perfect for a filling dinner when your child needs something easy to eat.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Turkey Meatballs
Caramelized Apple Oatmeal
Caramelized apple oatmeal is a warm and soft breakfast that’s easy on braces. The tender oats and sweet apples make for a comforting bowl that’s gentle on sensitive teeth. It’s a nourishing choice for a gentle start to the day.
Get the Recipe: Caramelized Apple Oatmeal
Sourdough Pancakes
Sourdough pancakes are a soft and braces-friendly twist on classic pancakes. Their light texture and mild tangy flavor are easy to chew, making them perfect for kids with braces. These pancakes are an easy meal when regular foods are tough to eat.
Get the Recipe: Sourdough Pancakes
Mini Apple Pancakes
Mini apple pancakes are soft, bite-sized treats that are gentle on braces. The fluffy texture and sweet apple flavor make them a perfect breakfast or snack. They’re easy to chew and a fun option when eating regular foods feels uncomfortable.
Get the Recipe: Mini Apple Pancakes
French Onion Soup
French onion soup is a rich, comforting meal that’s great for kids with braces. The soft, caramelized onions and savory broth are easy to eat and full of flavor. Topped with soft bread and cheese, this soup makes for a gentle and satisfying dinner.
Get the Recipe: French Onion Soup