Braces-friendly Holiday Tips

During this time of year, there are lots of holiday parties and plenty of opportunities to spend time with family and friends. Holiday get-togethers mean tons of delicious and tempting foods that you’ll want to dive right into! During this time, it is important to remember what foods to avoid that can damage your braces. Here are a few helpful tips for you to follow so that you can still enjoy this holiday season!

Chew Slowly

Chewing slowly is never a bad idea. regardless of whether or not you have braces. When we chew our food slowly and with care, it helps prevent against digestion issues and choking hazards. It is also helpful for orthodontic patients because it removes the risk of breaking a bracket or wire. Cutting your food into small pieces before eating it can also reduce this risk.

Avoid Nuts

Although nuts are a delicious holiday treat (especially when they are covered in  sugar), you should try your best to stay away from all types of nuts while you have braces. It is important to stay away from nuts during your orthodontic treatment because they can easily break a bracket off or even cut one of your wires, causing discomfort. Popcorn should also be avoided due to it’s hard kernels that can easily break or get stuck in between teeth.

Brace-Friendly Foods

The list of foods to avoid while wearing braces is long, but is the list of foods you can eat! A rule of thumb to remember when thinking about what foods you can eat is that as long as they are soft and not sticky, they are usually allowed. For example, candied apples are a huge no-no, but apple pie is okay! This is because candied apples are extremely hard and sticky and can severely damage your braces. Candied yams, pumpkin pie, and green bean casserole are all soft and delicious foods that can easily be eaten with braces.

Color-Changing Braces

During every holiday, you can get extra festive with your braces! At your next orthodontics appointment, switch it up with your rubber band colors. Will you go with the traditional red and green? Or decide for a more classic look of silver and gold? The choice is up to you!

Foods That Will Benefit You

If you want to stay healthy this holiday season while also taking care of your braces and teeth, there are still many delicious foods you can enjoy! Practicing healthy habits while you have braces will not only help your overall health, but your oral health as well. Milk and dairy products are excellent to eat due to their high calcium content that will help strengthen teeth. Meats like ham and turkey off of the bone are also excellent sources of protein! Lastly, if you want to indulge, eating jello, ice cream, cake, and pies are easy ways to still enjoy your sweets.

If you have any questions about your braces and this upcoming holiday season, give us a call at (818)-708-4909 or schedule your orthodontic appointment online!