At Straighten Up Orthodontics in Silver Spring Maryland, we are all familiar with the sweets and treats that the holiday season brings. From the pumpkin shaped candies and cookies in October, to the red-and-white striped candy canes and gingerbread houses in December; there are a lot of events and celebrations to attend where candy and crunchy treats are the main focus.
Unfortunately, sugary foods (https://www.aaoinfo.org/blog/should-i-floss-or-brush-first/), drinks, and candies can contribute to tooth decay and decalcification, which can alter the results and timeline of your orthodontic treatment.
However, we know it can be hard to pass off a treat you’ve been waiting for all year, so we’ve compiled a list of treats and candies that are braces friendly!
Candy and Treats You Can Eat With Braces
According to the experts at the American Association for Orthodontics, the best candy options to choose have softer textures and are easy to chew. These items can include:
- Chocolates that contain no caramel or nuts (Like Hershey’s Milk Chocolate or Cookies n Creme)
- Peanut butter cups
- KitKats
- 3Musketeers
- Marshmallows
- (Soft) cookies
- Ice cream
- Sorbet
- Sherbert
- Smoothies
- Peppermint Patties
- Sweet potato pie (or pumpkin)
- Cranberry jelly
- Sweet Tarts
Candy to Avoid While Wearing Braces
The American Associaiton of Orthodontics recommends avoid these candies to protect your teeth and keep your orthodontic treatment on track:
- Sour candy
- Nuts
- Anything with caramel
- taffy
- hard candy
- chewy candy
- licorice
- bubble gum
- lollipops
- popcorn
- nuts
Taking Care of Your Teeth For The Holidays
Lastly, if you are going to be indulging in lots of sugary foods and drinks, make sure to keep your toothpaste and toothbrush handy. If you happen to be away from your travel toothbrush and toothpaste, use water or mouthwash to rinse excess candy particles from your braces. However, make sure to brush your teeth immediately once your cleaning tools are available.