Holidays are coming up fast, and with them come parties, candy, and other treats. Unfortunately, many of these treats are damaging to your child’s braces. How do you make the holiday fun, while maintaining excellent oral health and not damaging any wires or brackets? Our office is here to help.
First, know what your child should not be eating. The American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) recommends avoiding such things as bubblegum, caramel, hard candy, hard pretzels, jelly beans, licorice, lollipops, popcorn, and taffy. These can damage your child’s braces and render them broken or less effective. They can also get stuck in between braces and increase the occurrence of cavities.
Second, help your child understand that there are many things they CAN still eat. To help guarantee this, volunteer to bring something they can eat to holiday parties, as is appropriate. Make sure your family treats are braces-friendly. Here are some options:
–thinly sliced apples sprinkled with cinnamon-sugar
–cheese platters
–brownies cut into holiday shapes and decorated
–orange slices dipped in chocolate
–peanut butter cookies (no nut pieces)
–fudge (no nuts)
–ice cream
–pumpkin pie
–fruit pie
–cake
Of course, when eating sugary snacks and treats, make sure to keep portions small, and have them rinse their mouth with water afterwards. Make sure to remind them to brush and floss extra-well that day.
For more information, call Wayne Family Orthodontics in Wayne, New Jersey at 973-341-3180. Dr. Muhammad Abey and our whole team will be happy to help you keep your smile bright this holiday season.