Braces and Holiday Treats

With the holidays in full swing keep in mind yours braces and holiday treats!

With the holiday season fast approaching, many will spend more time at home and visiting friends. This is also a period when those wearing braces might be tempted to try some treats that could damage their braces, cause immediate pain, and make the holidays less joyful.

As you plan for holiday events, keep in mind the following sweets and treats that those with braces should avoid and select as alternatives.

Things to Avoid:

Generally speaking, refrain from any foods or treats that are sticky, chewy, or hard. Some of the items that should be avoided include bubblegum, caramel, corn chips, gummy bears, hard pretzels, jelly beans, licorice, lollipops, nuts, popcorn, and other similar foods. These items can damage the metal brackets on the braces. Also, make sure that anyone wearing braces avoids chewing on ice.

Sweets and Treats You May Want to Select:

There are many alternatives that those wearing braces can enjoy. Some examples include: applesauce, brownies (as long as they are not too gooey), soft candies and chocolates (especially ones that melt in your mouth), soft cookies, cupcakes, custard cream, gelatins, ice cream, marshmallows, pancakes or waffles with fruit and/or syrup, peanut butter, pudding, smoothies, and yogurts (regular and frozen). Floats and milkshakes are good alternatives, too. Some hard fruits, such as apples or pears, are okay if thinly sliced. You can add whipped topping or other soft sweeteners to blueberries, strawberries, and other fruits.

Other Things to Remember . . .

Never let holiday distractions change your brushing, flossing, and rinsing schedule. Also, remember to drink water after having any sweets to reduce the buildup of plaque.

 

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