What can you eat with an expander?

If that's the case, then you can't really eat anything "with" an expander. The expander itself is a fixed appliance that sits in your mouth and expands your palate over time.

What you *can* eat while wearing an expander depends on what foods you can comfortably chew with it. Here are some general guidelines:

Foods to Avoid:

* Hard foods: Nuts, hard candy, popcorn, ice, raw vegetables

* Sticky foods: Chewing gum, caramel, taffy

* Tough foods: Meat with tough tendons, stringy vegetables

* Foods that get stuck: Seeds, fibrous foods, popcorn kernels

Foods to Eat:

* Soft foods: Yogurt, mashed potatoes, applesauce, soft fruits

* Cooked vegetables: Steamed or roasted vegetables, soft pasta

* Cut into small pieces: Chicken, fish, rice, bread

* Smoothies and soups: Easy to swallow and provide nutrients

Tips:

* Cut food into small pieces: This makes it easier to chew and prevents getting food stuck in the expander.

* Chew on the back teeth: Avoid chewing with your front teeth to prevent pressure on the expander.

* Brush and floss carefully: Proper oral hygiene is essential to prevent food debris and bacteria from building up around the expander.

Important Note: It's essential to talk to your orthodontist about specific foods to avoid and dietary recommendations while you're wearing an expander. They can provide personalized advice based on your individual needs.