candies and food to watch out for while in braces

 




Spooky Sweets: Foods and Candies to Avoid While in Braces This Halloween | Old Bridge Orthodontics

Location: 2101 Rt. 516 Ste. A, Old Bridge, NJ 08857
Phone Number: 732.607.2488
Orthodontist: Dr. Leung

Halloween is Here, But What Can You Eat with Braces?

Halloween is a fun time for costumes, parties, and, of course, candy! But if you’re wearing braces, it’s essential to be cautious about what you eat to avoid damage to your braces and ensure your orthodontic treatment stays on track. Dr. Leung at Old Bridge Orthodontics in Old Bridge, NJ shares what foods and candies to avoid while in braces this spooky season.

Why Certain Foods Are Off-Limits for Braces

Braces are meant to straighten your teeth, but certain Halloween treats can interfere with your treatment or damage your braces. Avoiding sticky, hard, and chewy candies is crucial to keeping your orthodontic journey smooth and your smile healthy. Here’s a breakdown of what you should steer clear of this Halloween.

1. Sticky Candies: A No-Go for Braces

Examples: Caramel, Taffy, Gummy Candies
Sticky treats like caramel and gummy candies can get stuck in your braces, making it difficult to clean your teeth and risking cavities. These sweets also put stress on your brackets, which can lead to breakages.

2. Hard Candies: Protect Your Braces!

Examples: Jawbreakers, Lollipops, Hard Mints
Hard candies can break wires and brackets when bitten into. A simple trip to the orthodontist for a repair is something you want to avoid. Stick to softer options to keep your braces safe.

3. Chewy Sweets: Avoid Damage to Brackets and Wires

Examples: Fruit Snacks, Gummy Bears, Licorice
Chewy candies can get lodged in your braces and pull on your brackets, leading to looseness or breakage. Plus, they make oral hygiene more challenging by getting stuck in hard-to-reach areas.

4. Popcorn: A Risk for Braces

Popcorn kernels can easily get stuck in your braces, and biting down on them can damage your brackets.  The kernels can also get trapped behind the gums or in other nooks and crannies which maybe difficult to remove.  When this happens a trapped kernel can lead to gum inflammation and/or bad breath. If you're craving a snack, try softer alternatives instead!

5. Nuts: Avoid Hard Treats

Nuts are nutritious but too hard for braces. They can snap wires or damage your brackets, so it’s best to hold off on nuts until your braces are off, or simply enjoy smooth delicious nut butters instead.

Tips for Enjoying Halloween with Braces

While you should be cautious about what you eat, Halloween can still be fun with these tips:

  • Choose Wisely: Opt for soft chocolate bars without hard or sticky bits. Chocolate melts in your mouth and is much safer for braces.
  • Practice Moderation: Enjoy sweet treats in moderation. Too much sugar can cause cavities, which could complicate your orthodontic treatment.
  • Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to rinse away sugar and keep your mouth clean.
  • Brush After Treats: If you enjoy something sweet, be sure to brush your teeth afterward to prevent plaque buildup.
  • Consult Dr. Leung: If you’re unsure about what’s safe to eat, don’t hesitate to ask Dr. Leung at Old Bridge Orthodontics for advice.

Conclusion

This Halloween, make sure you enjoy the festivities while keeping your braces in mind. By avoiding sticky, hard, and chewy candies, you’ll help ensure a smoother orthodontic journey. For more tips on how to maintain your braces during holidays, call Dr. Leung at Old Bridge Orthodontics at 732.607.2488. Happy Halloween, and don't forget to brush and floss!

Contact Old Bridge Orthodontics
Phone: 732.607.2488
Location: 2101 Rt. 516 Ste. A, Old Bridge, NJ 08857
Website: www.oldbridgeortho.com

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