If you’re dealing with braces, there’s a good chance your teeth feel sore after an adjustment. That’s completely normal, but it doesn’t mean you have to give up your favorite treats. Ice cream is one of the best go-to’s for sore teeth, and lucky for you, Arlington has some solid spots.
Braces come with some pressure, literally. After a tightening, it’s normal for your teeth to feel sore for a day or two. Dr. Varallosees it all the time at Varallo Orthodontics in Arlington. One of the easiest ways to calm that tenderness is with cold and soft foods. Ice cream checks both boxes and gives you a solid reason to treat yourself on the way home.
Here are a few local favorites of ice cream for braces worth checking out (and a few that are just a short drive away).
Arlington’s Go-To Ice Cream Shops
Arlington has a few great spots when you’re in the mood for something cold and comforting. Whether you’re fresh out of an appointment or just playing it safe with sore teeth, these local favorites deliver on flavor without giving your braces a hard time.
The Scoop N Scootery
This place is legendary for a reason. If you’re looking for rich, creamy ice cream with braces without having to leave your couch, this is it. The Scoop N Scootery offers massive sundaes, creative flavors, and delivery right to your door. Their “Make Your Own” option is perfect if you want to keep it soft and braces-friendly, just avoid anything with crunchy toppings or hard candies.
Great Picks Just Outside Arlington
If you’re up for a quick drive, these nearby spots are worth the detour. They have the same braces-friendly texture and flavor you’re after, with a few extras you might not find in town.
Rancatore’s Ice Cream & Yogurt – Belmont
Just a short ride from Arlington, Ranc’s is a small-batch creamery with some of the most thoughtful flavors around. The texture of their ice cream is super smooth, making it a great pick after an adjustment. Stick with soft mix-ins or plain scoops if your teeth are extra sensitive.
Art’s Creamery– Belmont
Technically not far from home, Art’s Creamery packs a punch in flavor and attention to detail. Their strawberry roasted flavor is rich but not overpowering, and the vanilla bean is as classic as it gets. Many of their offerings are gentle on braces, but steer clear of anything chunky, such as cookie dough or candy-loaded blends.
How to Still Enjoy Your Ice Cream With Braces
Having braces doesn’t mean you have to skip dessert. It just means making smarter choices. Ice cream is one of the easiest treats to modify. Here’s how to keep it safe and satisfying:
- Skip the cones. Even cake cones can be too hard on brackets.
- Watch the mix-ins. Stick with smooth options like fudge, caramel, or fruit sauces.
- Say no to nuts and candy. Anything hard or chewy is a risk to your brackets.
- Try soft-serve or custard. These melt faster and are gentler on sore teeth.
- Keep it cold, but not freezing. Too much cold can cause extra sensitivity. Let it sit for a minute before diving in.
- As always, be sure to brush your teethafter indulging in your favorite ice cream.
Making a few small changes can help keep ice cream on the menu without risking your progress during orthodontic treatment.
Why Soft, Cold Treats Help After Adjustments
Braces work by applying steady pressure, which can leave your teeth feeling sore, especially right after an adjustment. That’s where soft, cold treats like ice cream come in.
Eases Inflammation
Cold foods like ice cream help calm inflammation in your gums and soft tissue. That’s especially helpful in the first few days after an adjustment.
Gentle on Teeth
When chewing feels like a challenge, soft foods that melt in your mouth are your best bet. Ice cream is naturally easy to eat; just choose the right kind.
Boosts Your Mood
Let’s be honest, having braces isn’t always fun. Treating yourself to something sweet after an appointment can make the whole experience feel a little better. And that matters more than people give it credit for.
Braces and Ice Cream Can Coexist
There’s no reason to ditch your favorite spots just because you have braces. Dr. Varallo and the team at Varallo Orthodonticsencourage patients in our Arlington officeto enjoy soft treats like ice cream, especially during those first few days of soreness.
You’ll just want to steer clear of crunchy mix-ins and anything sticky, like caramel chunks or candy bits. Focus on texture, not toppings, and your braces will stay right where they need to.
Cold Comfort, Local Favorites, and Braces That Still Work
Living in Arlingtongives you plenty of local options for ice cream with braces when your teeth are feeling tender. Whether you’re stopping by Abbott’s for frozen custard or ordering in from The Scoop N Scootery, you have great choices within reach.
If you’re ever unsure what’s safe to eat or have questions about how to make adjustments easier, Dr. Varallo is always happy to help. Staying consistent with your treatment while still enjoying little comforts like these can make a big difference in how the whole process feels. Contact Varallo Orthodonticsif you have any questions!