If this is your first holiday season with braces, you don’t have to worry about missing out on the celebrations. However, you will need to give your mouth a little extra attention and watch what you eat to avoid adding delays to your treatment. Here are 6 tips to enjoy the holidays with braces.
1. Choose Soft Foods
The holidays are full of many mouth-watering foods that are braces-friendly, like stuffing, mashed potatoes, and baked yams. Soft foods are less likely to get caught in your braces. You can also avoid discomfort because they require minimal chewing.
2. Cut Your Food Into Small Pieces
If you can’t resist turkey or other foods that require more chewing, cut it into small pieces to make it easier to chew. Chew slowly and carefully to avoid biting your tongue or the insides of your lips and cheeks. You’ll also be less likely to pop off a bracket or break a wire, so an orthodontic emergency doesn’t interrupt your plans.
3. Skip Sticky Candy
Your orthodontist has already explained the risks of eating sticky or chewy candy, but they can be difficult to resist. They can get stuck around your wires and brackets. Not to mention, they can get trapped between your teeth. If you can’t resist your sweet tooth, choose a piece of chocolate. However, don’t eat any chocolate that contains nuts or caramel.
4. Moderate Sugary Foods and Drinks
If you look forward to candy canes, cookies, and other sugary treats, it’s best to have them in moderation. Sugar feeds cavity-causing bacteria that can erode your enamel over time. If you have a sweet treat, brush and floss your teeth well after you finish.
5. Drink Plenty of Water
A dry mouth is one of the first signs of dehydration. If you’re not producing enough saliva, oral bacteria growth increases, which can lead to odors, cavities, and gum disease. If your mouth feels dry, it’s time to grab a glass of water. Healthcare professionals recommend drinking at least eight 8-oz glasses of water daily.
6. Commit to Your Oral Hygiene Routine
The holidays are no time to let your oral hygiene habits slip. Commit to brushing your teeth after every meal for 2 minutes. Don’t forget to floss every day to keep your mouth clean and healthy.
You don’t have to fret about an orthodontic emergency or bad news the next time you visit your dentist. Good oral hygiene and nutritious foods will keep your treatment on track and your mouth healthy.
About Dr. Tamara L. Jones
Dr. Jones earned her dental degree at the Baylor College of Dentistry and chose to continue her education in orthodontics. She has completed a Master’s and Certificate in Orthodontics. She is a proud member of several professional organizations, including the American Dental Association. Schedule an appointment online or call (972) 295-9266.