By Dr. Zaidi, Zaidi Orthodontics
Featuring Amy Woodman, RD, Farmington Valley Nutrition & Wellness
A Healthy Smile Starts from the Inside Out
At Zaidi Orthodontics, we know that braces are only part of the equation when it comes to building a confident, healthy smile. The foods you eat every day have a direct impact on your orthodontic results—and your overall wellness.
That’s why Dr. Zaidi partners with local nutrition experts like Amy Woodman, RD from Farmington Valley Nutrition & Wellness to provide a complete, holistic approach to orthodontic care.
Why Nutrition Is Key During Orthodontic Treatment
Braces help align your teeth, but nutrition fuels the process. Eating the right foods supports healthy gums, strong enamel, and overall dental health throughout your treatment journey.
Nutrition Tips for Children and Teens
Growing smiles need special care! Kids and teens undergoing orthodontic treatment benefit from:
- Calcium, Vitamin D, and Phosphorus to support bone and tooth development
- Three servings of dairy per day, per the Dietary Guidelines for Americans
- Try: 8 oz. milk, 6 oz. yogurt, 1.5 oz. cheese, or 1 cup kefir
- Using alternatives like soy milk? Check labels for protein, calcium, and vitamin D
Braces-Friendly Snack Ideas:
- Soft fruit salad (bananas, melon, berries)
- Apple or pear slices with smooth nut butter (like Teddie’s, no added sugar)
- Oatmeal (instant, steel-cut, or pre-packaged from Kodiak or Quaker)
- Greek yogurt or Skyr
- Soft granola bars from Kind or Nature Valley
Nutrition Tips for Adults in Treatment
Adults may face added concerns like gum sensitivity or enamel erosion. A nutrient-dense diet rich in antioxidants and vitamins can help protect your teeth and gums.
Quick Meal Ideas for Busy Adults:
- Smoothies (check out recipes from eatingwell.com)
- Overnight oats with fruit and seeds
- Soft proteins like cottage cheese, yogurt, chicken salad, or egg salad
- Finely chopped salads loaded with colorful veggies
Dr. Zaidi’s Top 3 Nutrition Tips for Braces
- Choose Soft, Nutrient-Rich Foods
If you experience weight loss, include healthy fats (avocado, olive oil, nut butter) and protein sources like chicken, turkey, fish, beans, or tofu. - Avoid Foods That Can Damage Braces
Say no to hard snacks (popcorn, raw carrots, nuts) and sticky sweets (caramel, chewing gum). - Hydrate the Smart Way
Stick to water—skip sugary or acidic drinks that can stain teeth and erode enamel. Bored of plain water? Try fruit-infused options like Hint or make your own with fresh fruit slices.
How Your Orthodontist Supports Your Nutrition
Dr. Zaidi does more than straighten teeth. At Zaidi Orthodontics, we help you:
- Choose braces-safe foods
- Adjust your meals after orthodontic appointments
- Boost your calcium and vitamin intake to support healthy bone structure
Meet Our Nutrition Partner: Amy Woodman, RD
For a customized, braces-friendly eating plan, we recommend working with Amy Woodman, RD, a local registered dietitian who understands the unique dietary needs of orthodontic patients.
At Farmington Valley Nutrition & Wellness, Amy helps patients of all ages:
- Create personalized nutrition plans
- Find braces-safe snacks and meals
- Feel confident eating well throughout treatment
Contact Amy Woodman, RD
Farmington Valley Nutrition & Wellness
720 Hopmeadow St, Suite 4
Simsbury, CT 06070
860-324-8963
farmingtonvalleynutrition.com