- Start with soft, easy-to-chew foods. Examples of good choices for soft foods include: yogurt, applesauce, mashed potatoes, and soups.
- Cut food into small pieces. This will help you avoid accidentally biting down on your palatal expander.
- Chew slowly and carefully. Be mindful of the position of your tongue and teeth as you chew, to avoid any discomfort or damage.
- Avoid foods that are hard, crunchy, or sticky. These types of foods can be more difficult to chew with a palatal expander in place and could potentially damage the expander.
- Drink plenty of water. This will help to keep your mouth and throat moist, which can help make eating more comfortable.
- If you experience any pain or discomfort while eating, stop eating and talk to your orthodontist.