{"id":154,"date":"2023-12-14T19:16:00","date_gmt":"2023-12-14T19:16:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.richardsonortho.com\/blog\/?p=154"},"modified":"2024-02-23T18:22:49","modified_gmt":"2024-02-23T18:22:49","slug":"how-to-enjoy-holiday-foods-while-wearing-braces","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.richardsonortho.com\/blog\/2023\/12\/14\/how-to-enjoy-holiday-foods-while-wearing-braces\/","title":{"rendered":"Tips for Eating Holiday Meals with Braces"},"content":{"rendered":"

\"CloseIf this is your first holiday season with braces<\/a>, you don\u2019t 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.<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n\n\n

1. Choose Soft Foods<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

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. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Cut Your Food Into Small Pieces<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

If you can\u2019t 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\u2019ll also be less likely to pop off a bracket or break a wire, so an orthodontic emergency doesn\u2019t interrupt your plans. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Skip Sticky Candy<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

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\u2019t resist your sweet tooth, choose a piece of chocolate. However, don\u2019t eat any chocolate that contains nuts or caramel. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Moderate Sugary Foods and Drinks<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

If you look forward to candy canes, cookies, and other sugary treats, it\u2019s 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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Drink Plenty of Water<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

A dry mouth is one of the first signs of dehydration. If you\u2019re not producing enough saliva, oral bacteria growth increases, which can lead to odors, cavities, and gum disease. If your mouth feels dry, it\u2019s time to grab a glass of water. Healthcare professionals recommend drinking at least eight 8-oz glasses of water daily.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

6. Commit to Your Oral Hygiene Routine<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

The holidays are no time to let your oral hygiene habits slip. Commit to brushing your teeth after every meal for 2 minutes. Don\u2019t forget to floss every day to keep your mouth clean and healthy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

You don\u2019t 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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

About Dr. Tamara L. Jones<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Dr. Jones<\/a> earned her dental degree at the Baylor College of Dentistry and chose to continue her education in orthodontics. She has completed a Master\u2019s and Certificate in Orthodontics. She is a proud member of several professional organizations, including the American Dental Association. Schedule an appointment<\/a> online or call (972) 295-9266.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

If this is your first holiday season with braces, you don\u2019t 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.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[1],"tags":[],"yoast_head":"\nHow to Enjoy Holiday Foods While Wearing Braces<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"You don\u2019t have to skip your favorite seasonal foods if you have braces. 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