Summer Smoothies: The Perfect Solution for Kids with Palatal Expanders


• 4 min read

Palatal Expander Friendly Recipes - Summer Smoothies Best Recipes for those with Braces and Palatal Expanders

Adjusting to a palatal expander can be uncomfortable—especially when it comes to eating. Fortunately, summer is the perfect time to introduce cold, soothing foods, and smoothies are at the top of the list. These nutrient-packed blends are not only easy on the teeth but also fun to make, especially when your child gets involved.

Why Smoothies Are a Smart Choice for Orthodontic Patients

Whether your child just had their palatal expander placed or they’re in the middle of treatment, smoothies offer several benefits:

  • Soft texture: No chewing required, so there’s no pressure on sensitive areas.

  • Cool and soothing: The cold temperature helps ease inflammation and discomfort.

  • Highly customizable: Adapt the ingredients to meet your child’s dietary needs or preferences.

According to the American Association of Orthodontists, soft foods like smoothies are recommended during the initial adjustment period with orthodontic appliances.

Top 3 Kid-Friendly Smoothie Recipes

1. Berry Banana Bliss

This classic combo is rich in antioxidants and potassium.

Ingredients:

  • 1 banana

  • ½ cup strawberries

  • ½ cup blueberries

  • 1 cup almond milk or plain yogurt

Instructions:

Blend all ingredients until smooth. Serve cold.

2. Tropical Comfort

Perfect for summer, this tropical blend brings a refreshing twist.

Ingredients:

  • ½ cup mango

  • ½ cup pineapple

  • 1 banana

  • 1 cup coconut water

  • Optional: 1 scoop of vanilla protein powder

Instructions:

Blend until smooth and creamy. Add ice for extra chill.

3. Green Glow Smoothie

Sneak in veggies without sacrificing flavor.

Ingredients:

  • ½ avocado

  • 1 cup baby spinach

  • 1 banana

  • 1 cup apple juice

Instructions:

Blend until silky smooth. Sweet, mild, and packed with nutrients.

Tips for Parents: Making Smoothie Time Easy and Fun

  • Use a straw or spoon to avoid direct pressure on the expander.

  • Skip seeds and hard chunks, which can get trapped and cause irritation.

  • Let your child pick the ingredients to keep them engaged and excited about their treatment-friendly meals.

For added variety, consider freezing smoothie blends into popsicles for a fun treat!

Conclusion:

Smoothies are more than a delicious snack—they’re a smart way to help your child stay nourished and comfortable during their orthodontic journey.

Want more tips on what your child can eat with a palatal expander?

 Read our comfort tips and guide for palatal expanders

Frequently Asked Questions

Answers to common questions related to this article.

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends a child have their first check-up by age 7. At this stage, we can monitor jaw growth and the transition from baby teeth to permanent teeth. Early evaluation at our Oak Creek or West Allis offices allows us to catch potential issues early, often making future treatment faster and less invasive.

Yes, there is usually just a small learning curve. Most young musicians find that after a week or two of practice, they can play their trumpet, flute, or clarinet just as well as before. We provide plenty of orthodontic wax to help cushion the lips during those first few practice sessions, ensuring your child can stay active in their school band or orchestra.

This is a common concern for parents when deciding between Spark™ Clear Aligners and fixed braces. Because aligners are removable for eating and sports, they can occasionally be misplaced in a school cafeteria or locker room. If your child struggles with organization or is prone to losing track of their belongings, traditional or LightForce™ 3D-printed braces might be the better choice. These “fixed” options remain bonded to the teeth throughout treatment, removing the responsibility of tracking removable trays and ensuring the process stays on schedule without the added cost or delay of ordering replacement aligners.

Absolutely. We work with many local Milwaukee schools to find appointment times that minimize time away from the classroom. Many parents prefer starting treatment during a school break so their child has a few days to get used to the feel of braces, but we successfully start new smiles all year round.

Yes! This is often referred to as Phase 1 treatment. We sometimes place braces on just a few permanent teeth while baby teeth are still present to correct a specific issue, like a crossbite or severe crowding, that could cause bigger problems later. Once those baby teeth fall out, we typically take a “rest” period before starting Phase 2 when all permanent teeth are in.

Ready for your custom smile?

Our Milwaukee offices in West Allis and Oak Creek are ready to help.

Schedule Your Free Consult

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