Holiday Oral Health: Braces Edition
The holiday season brings with it tidings of good cheer, heaping amounts of delicious foods, and candied treats. While there is nothing wrong with a person who has braces to partake in the good cheer or to enjoy a feast or two, when that person indulges in candied treats, it could put their teeth at risk. If you have braces, you can protect your mouth and your investment by following these few simple oral health tips, braces edition.
Avoid Candied Treats and Sticky Snacks
It seems as if everywhere you look during the holidays there’s a candied or caramelized something to tempt even the most strong-willed individual. Even the yams are candied! Avoid temptation and refrain from eating anything that is sticky, hard, chewy or crunchy. Your braces, along with their brackets, bands and wires, will thank you.
If You Must Indulge, Indulge Wisely
Here at our West Seattle orthodontic office, we understand that even the most resolute patients give into their sweet tooth every once in a while. If you find yourself unable to resist a sweet treat, at least make it a sweet treat that won’t pull out your wires and brackets, and that will wash away with a swig of water. Stick with peppermint patties, soft chocolates, peanut butter cups and other candies that can melt in your mouth.
Step Up Your Brushing and Flossing Game
You should be vigilant about brushing and flossing regardless of the time of year, but during the holidays, consider adding one more brushing and flossing regime to your daily schedule. Take extra care to get around all of your brackets and wires, giving extra attention to areas where your braces attach to your teeth.
Have a Travel Kit at the Ready
It is not uncommon for families to go on vacation or to take a stay-cation during the holiday season. Whether you plan on going skiing in the Rockies or staying at Grandma’s house for the holiday weekend, make sure you take your braces kit with you. This kit should include a toothbrush, floss, wax, mouthwash and elastics.
These are just a few tips to keep your smile healthy and dazzling during the season! If you have any questions or have a braces emergency, contact our Burien and West Seattle orthodontic offices for information or assistance.
