When you’re wearing braces, eating healthy becomes a bit more strategic. But don’t worry—you don’t have to give up delicious meals! Norton Orthodontics tries to make it easy for patients in Port Charlotte, Bonita Springs, and Cape Coral to enjoy their food while protecting their braces.
In this blog, our team will explore great options for healthy foods with braces, recommend local restaurants, and answer a few common questions about eating with braces.
Our Local Picks for Healthy Foods with Braces
We’re lucky to live and work in these areas for a lot of reasons, one of them being that there’s plenty of access to healthy eating. Here are ten fantastic spots to visit around our Norton Orthodontics neighborhoods:
- First Watch (Port Charlotte) – This breakfast and lunch café offers braces-friendly options like soft avocado toast, scrambled eggs, and their superfood bowls. Their fresh fruit and whole-grain toast are easy on braces and big on flavor. Whether you’re in the mood for a fresh juice or a warm breakfast plate, everything here is made to order.
- The Garden of Eatin’ (Bonita Springs) – This has been a community staple for 35 years, and it’s easy to see why. This cozy health-focused spot specializes in wholesome, organic meals that are ideal for those with braces. Their veggie soup is rich in flavor and easy on your teeth, while wraps can be customized to be soft and chew-friendly. Their acai bowls come with optional toppings, so you can skip anything crunchy and still enjoy a refreshing, nutrient-packed treat
- True Food Kitchen (Naples, near Bonita Springs) – With options like soft roasted salmon, mashed sweet potatoes, and turmeric-spiced bowls, this spot balances flavor with orthodontist-approved textures. The turmeric-spiced ancient grains bowl offers an anti-inflammatory boost while maintaining a gentle texture for sensitive mouths.
- Green Cup Café (Fort Myers) – This hidden downtown gem offers smoothie bowls and creamy soups that are all braces-friendly. Vegan soft tacos made with seasoned lentils and guacamole are a hit, and their house-made soups change daily and are always rich in nutrients and easy to eat. The avocado-laced quinoa bowl is another popular option, combining softness with a hearty, satisfying meal.
- Buddha-Bachi Express (Cape Coral) – This Asian-fusion spot is known for customizable bowls with rice, tofu, and steamed veggies—perfect for a soft, nourishing meal. Everything is cooked to order, so you can avoid anything crunchy or too chewy. It’s an excellent choice when you want something filling, flavorful, and gentle on your braces.
- The Healthy Nut (Cape Coral) – Smoothie bowls, fresh juices, and soft protein pancakes make this a great post-appointment stop. If you’re looking for a refreshing drink, try one of their antioxidant-packed juices. Each item is crafted with nutrition and convenience in mind, making it a smart and delicious option for anyone eating healthy with braces.
- Juice Society (Bonita Springs) – Cold-pressed juices, blended bowls, and soft oatmeal are highlights here. Their braces-friendly options include soft oatmeal made with almond milk and spices, acai bowls topped with fresh fruit and seed butter, and creamy turmeric and ginger wellness shots that soothe inflammation. Everything is plant-based and designed for maximum nourishment without tough textures.
- Ada’s Natural Market Cafe (Fort Myers) – A bit of a drive but worth it for wholesome meals and soft sides like roasted vegetables and brown rice. Their hot bar often includes dishes like roasted root vegetables, soft lentil stews, and brown rice bowls with tender tofu or grilled fish.
- Yuppie Bowls (Port Charlotte) – Acai bowls loaded with bananas, soft berries, and nut butters. Just ask to skip the crunchy granola and opt for soft extras like shredded coconut or flax meal. Their house-made blends are packed with antioxidants and easy to eat, making this a popular stop for both orthodontic patients and health enthusiasts.
- Harvest & Wisdom (Bonita Springs) – For a more upscale option, we recommend this farm-to-table restaurant with options like soft fish, whipped potatoes, and pureed soups. Whether you’re celebrating a milestone or just want a healthy meal you don’t have to worry about chewing, this place is braces-friendly elegance at its finest!
Mini FAQ: Eating Healthy with Braces
Q: Can I eat salads with braces? Yes, but Dr. Norton recommends choosing tender greens like spinach and avoiding crunchy toppings like croutons. Add soft proteins or avocado for texture and flavor.
Q: What snacks are safe for braces? Smoothies, yogurt, cheese sticks, applesauce, and soft granola bars are all good options.
Q: How do I eat fruits with braces? Always stick to soft fruits or cut harder fruits like apples into thin slices. Bananas, kiwis, and berries are ideal
Good Eats & Good Teeth
If you’ve been considering orthodontic treatment, we’d love to see you at one of our three offices in Cape Coral, Port Charlotte, and Bonita Springs!