Brace care over the festive period
Christmas day is coming soon and we’re very excited. Today’s blog will help you and your braces get through the festive period without the need for an emergency trip to your orthodontist. Continue reading and learn which treats to avoid and how to care for your aligners.
Which foods should I avoid?
Sweet treats are always tempting, especially during Christmas. When you have braces, there are a few things you should stay away from to prevent the risk of your braces bending or breaking. Hard, sticky and chewy foods should be avoided as they can cause serious damage to your braces.
Candy canes
Candy canes and boiled sweets are a no-go, the hard sugar will dislodge your brace’s wires or brackets and can sometimes chip your teeth. The high sugar content isn’t good for your teeth either, as it will cause tooth decay and cavities. If you do, however, fancy a candy cane, try using it to stir your hot chocolate for a sweet mint chocolate treat.
Nibbles
Nuts, pretzels, breadsticks, carrot sticks and dips are common nibbles served at Christmas parties. While they all taste delicious, they are hard and crunchy and again can cause your braces to break. We suggest you stay away from these foods, but a few safe snack foods include room temperature chocolate and cake!
Gingerbread
Gingerbread biscuits and sugar cookies are also foods to avoid during your brace treatment because of the damage they can cause your aligners. Soft cookies, however, are safe when eaten with care.
Which foods are safe for braces?
Patients have previously asked us whether they can enjoy their Christmas dinner whilst wearing braces and the answer is yes. Turkey, chicken and ham are soft meats that won’t damage your braces. Soft stuffing, mashed potatoes and soft vegetables are also safe. Christmas pudding that doesn’t contain nuts can also be eaten...topped with cream too!
If you have Invisalign, all of the above foods can be eaten as long as you are still careful. Just make sure you remove the aligners before you eat and then brush your teeth before placing them back in your mouth.
Cleaning your braces
If you are out at a Christmas party this season then you must take care of your braces. We recommend you bring a mini toothbrush, toothpaste and mouthwash with you to use after meals. If you forget these then, use a glass of water to swish away any food and sugar that is left on your teeth after you have eaten. Then simply brush your teeth as soon as you’re home.
What should I do if my brace snaps during Christmas?
No one wants to have to go to the orthodontist during Christmas, but if you do experience any problems make sure you contact us on 0161 884 1481 to seek further advice. If the practice is closed, fill in the contact form on our website and we will be in touch as soon as possible. In the meantime, you can apply orthodontic wax to the problem area to reduce any pain or discomfort.
- Mohammad Malik
