Eating and Drinking with Braces/Aligners
The holidays are a time for family, fun, and—of course—delicious food! But if you’re currently wearing braces/aligners, navigating holiday meals and treats can be tricky. The good news is that with a little planning and knowledge, you can enjoy all your favourite foods without worrying about damaging your braces or causing discomfort. Here’s what you need to know when eating and drinking with braces/aligners in order to make your holiday meals and snacks both enjoyable and safe for your smile!
1. Avoid Hard, Crunchy, and Sticky Foods
During the holiday season, it’s easy to encounter foods that could potentially harm your braces. Some items can bend wires, break brackets, dislodge clear aligner attachments, or get stuck in the appliances.
To keep your braces intact, steer clear of:
- Hard candies (think candy canes, lollipops)
- Popcorn (kernels can get stuck or break brackets)
- Nuts (like almonds or pecans)
- Hard crusty bread
- Sticky foods (like caramel, taffy, and toffee)
Tip:
Choose softer, friendlier options like mashed potatoes, soft rolls, and smooth dips.
2.Be Cautious with Chewy or Gooey Foods
While chewy or gooey foods like gumdrops, licorice, or fruitcakes are often popular holiday treats, they can pose a risk to your braces.
These foods can get stuck in your brackets and wires, making them difficult to remove and leading to plaque buildup.
Additionally, they can sometimes loosen bands or brackets, causing discomfort or delays in your treatment.
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Alternatives:
Try fruit salad, soft cookies, or soft baked desserts that are gentle on your braces.
3. Opt for Soft, Cut-Up Foods When Possible
Many holiday dishes, such as turkey or ham, may be a bit tough and difficult to bite into. To avoid discomfort or potential damage, opt for cutting these foods into smaller, manageable pieces.
This way, you can still enjoy your meal without putting too much pressure on your braces.
Examples of soft foods:
- Mashed potatoes
- Soft stuffing
- Smooth casseroles
- Cooked vegetables (steamed or roasted)
- Soft desserts like mousse or pudding
4. Drink with Care
When it comes to drinks, there are a few considerations to keep in mind.
Sugary drinks like soda, sweetened tea, or cocktails can increase the risk of cavities, so be mindful of how much sugar you’re consuming.
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Best choices:Water, milk, or sugar-free drinks are always a great option.
If you indulge in sugary drinks: Use a straw to minimize contact with your teeth, and be sure to brush your teeth afterward if possible.
Drink alcohol in moderation, and if you’re enjoying something like wine, be sure to rinse your mouth with water afterward.
5. Don’t Forget About Your Oral Hygiene
With all the holiday eating and drinking, it’s essential to stay on top of your oral hygiene routine. After each meal, be sure to:
- Brush your teeth carefully using a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste.
- Floss gently between your braces to remove food particles that may be stuck.
- Use an orthodontic wax if you experience any irritation from your brackets or wires.
- Rinse with mouthwash to help keep your mouth fresh and free of bacteria.
Final Thoughts
The holidays are all about enjoying time with loved ones, and there’s no reason why your braces should get in the way of that.
With a little awareness of what to eat and how to care for your braces, you can indulge in delicious food and celebrate the season with a smile.
Remember, moderation and care are key to ensuring your treatment continues smoothly during this festive time!
Happy holidays, and here’s to a healthy, beautiful smile in the New Year! 🎉
Cheers always,
<3 The Team at MyBracesClinic