While braces are a tried-and-true orthodontic method that can effectively treat even complex cases, they require significant effort on the part of the patient. While the special hygiene requirements are the same year-round, complying with the dietary restrictions the treatment entails can be especially difficult during the holiday season. Here are a few tips for getting the most enjoyment out of a holiday feast while keeping your orthodontic treatment on track.
How Can I Enjoy the Foods at a Holiday Feast While Wearing Braces?
When you’re loading up your plate at the holiday get-together, feel free to pile on the softer foods like mashed potatoes, steamed veggies, squash, and soups. These delicious items will give your braces no trouble and provide you with valuable nutrients. For dessert, enjoy soft yet tasty treats like custard, ice cream, cream-based pies, and puddings.
While holiday feasts often involve some sort of fancy meat dish, fibrous, chewy meats can be harsh on your braces if you’re not careful. The best way to handle these dishes is to cut them up into tiny, easily chewable pieces. To soften things up further, generously apply gravy to the meat to make it easy to chew and extra delicious.
What Holiday Foods Should I Avoid While Wearing Braces?
Candy is a common part of holiday celebrations, and while it can be harmful for your dental health in general, it can be especially problematic for people with braces. Chewing on hard candies like candy canes or butterscotch disks can break brackets off of the teeth or bend the wires out of shape. Chewy candies like toffees and caramels, on the other hand, can have a similar effect by pulling the parts of the braces out of place during chewing. Avoid these sweetmeats and stick to softer cakes and other desserts.
How Can I Keep Up with My Oral Hygiene?
It’s a great idea to carry an oral hygiene kit with you to holiday parties. It should include a toothbrush, toothpaste, and dental floss. This way, you can remove food debris from your teeth and braces after meals, which will prevent plaque, tooth decay, and dental stains. Just be sure to wait at least thirty minutes after eating before you brush.
Another excellent tip for celebrating the holidays with braces is to chew slowly. This will help prevent your braces from being damaged by an unnoticed hard bit of food and help you thoroughly enjoy every bite.
About the Practice
Rauchberg Dental Group provides dental services of the highest quality to the community of Parsippany, NJ. Led by a team of seven skilled dentists, the staff treats patients with personalized and effective care in a friendly environment. Areas of expertise include general, cosmetic, restorative, and emergency dentistry as well as orthodontic treatments. For more information about caring for your braces during the holidays, contact the office online or dial (973) 718-9887.