Braces can be a source of anxiety for many people, especially when it comes to eating certain foods with candy. However, with the right knowledge, it's totally possible to enjoy spooky season and maintain a confident, healthy smile. Here's a list of braces-friendly candies that are safe to enjoy during your next candy hunt.
Candy That's Safe for Bracelets
While it's natural to worry about accidentally damaging your orthodontic work, there are actually quite a few foods that are perfectly fine to munch on with a mouth full of brackets. The key is to stick to soft, chewy candies that won't get stuck or move around a lot.
Chocolate
Chocolate is widely considered to be one of the braces-friendly foods because it melts well and won’t stick to the brackets. Look for chocolate bars without nuts or caramel. Milk chocolate is a favorite among braces wearers because it’s soft and creamy, making it less likely to get caught in the hardware.
Peanut butter cups
Peanut butter cups are another great choice. They're soft and have a slight stickiness that doesn't seem to cause problems for most patients.
KitKat bars
KitKat bars are also safe for braces since they typically don't contain any hard, sticky ingredients. The classic chocolate-y snack is a hit with lots of folks who have trouble deciding what to do with candy after Halloween.
Soft cookies
Cookies are another soft snack that's generally considered safe for braces. While many people prefer them without nuts or added sugars, a soft, chewy cookie is a delicious way to satisfy that sweet tooth without any risk of bracket damage.
Marshmallows
Marshmallows are a popular choice for Halloween, and with good reason. They're soft and chewy, making them perfect for snacking on in between regular brushing sessions. Look for marshmallows that are packaged in a way that reduces the chance of them sticking to your teeth in the dental tray.
Candy That's Not Safe for Bracelets
On the flip side, there are several candies that should be avoided to prevent damage to your braces. These candies are often hard, sticky, or chewy, which increases the risk of injury to your teeth or orthodontic work.
Caramel
Caramel is known for being a stickier candy, and many orthodontists recommend avoiding it due to its ability to get caught in the gaps of dental brackets and wires. Regular caramel, including Brach's caramel squares and other chewy caramel candies, should be avoided.
Taffy, Lollipops, and Gummi bears
Taffy, lollipops, and gummi bears tend to be stickier and can get caught in the brackets or wires, particularly when they’re being chewed.
Starburst, Jolly Ranchers, and other hard candies
Hard candies like Starburst or M&Ms can be particularly detrimental. They often have hard shells that can break off and damage your brackets, or they can become lodged in the crevices and remain there for an extended period.
Chewing tobacco, bubble gum, and candy corn
Chewing tobacco, bubble gum, and candy corn are also avoidable. They’re not only potentially harmful to your teeth and gums but are also prone to getting caught in the brackets and wires.
Taking Care of Your Teeth
It's essential to maintain good oral hygiene habits whether you have braces or not. Brushing twice a day for two minutes and flossing once daily will help remove any plaque build-up that could potentially cause decay or damage to your orthodontic work.
##With a little prior research and awareness, it's possible to enjoy Halloween and other special occasions without compromise. If you have any concerns or questions about your specific situation, it's always a good idea to consult with your dentist or orthodontist before indulging in any new snacks or treats. Remember that the most important thing is to prioritize good oral health and maintain a positive attitude throughout the process.
