With Halloween fast approaching, followed by the holiday season, you or your child will likely eat a few too many sweet treats. While sugar is not a good thing for anyone’s teeth, it can be a significant problem for those who have braces. Some types of candies can damage dental braces. It is a good idea for those wearing braces to know which candy you should avoid at all costs. Our team at Lovett Dental Missouri City can help you make better decisions. For more information, contact our team today at 281-969-5099.
Don’t Eat These Candies if You Have Braces 
Your orthodontics team is sure to offer some insight into the right type of foods to eat and those to avoid when you have braces. Check out these recommendations for candies you should avoid whenever possible.
Gum
Any candy that has a gum-like texture should be avoided. The problem is gum can get deep into your braces, tangling up in them. This substance is tough to remove. It often leads to trying to pull the gum out of the braces by hand, which can further cause damage to your dental braces.
Hard Candy
Hard candy is dangerous for all teeth. While you may try to suck on these candies, most people end up biting into them. That can cause damage to the tooth and can damages the braces as well. Snapping your braces as a result of hard candy can mean an expensive fix.
Popcorn
Popcorn can sometimes seem safe. However, it’s hazardous for those wearing orthodontic applications because of the kernels in it. Biting into a kernel can cause your braces to snap. They can also get stuck between the brackets and wires and your teeth, creating potential damage and pain.
Caramel
A soft and sweet treat, caramels can be a problem for those who have dental braces. It is very sticky and hard to clean from your teeth and braces. Because of the high amount of sugar in them, they can also cause cavities.
Taffy
Taffy, like gum, can get into braces very quickly, and it is difficult to remove. Sometimes, it can also become hard as you chew it, leading to more potential damage.
Better Candy Options
If you ensure you brush your teeth after eating them, some types of candy are better for those enjoying Halloween this year with braces. Here are a few suggestions:
- Chocolate with no nuts or additives
- Peanut butter candies
- Sweets with a soft inside like Milky Ways
- Dissolving sugar products
- Cookie-like candy with a soft interior like Peppermint Patties
Keep Your Teeth Healthy with a Visit to the Dentist, Too
After Halloween, it is a good idea to visit the dentist for a quick trip. Let our team help you with any problems that arise as well. We can schedule the care you need including for:
- General dental cleanings
- General exams and x-rays
- Orthodontic exams and checkups
- Dental fluoride treatments
- Pediatric dentistry follow-ups
While you do not have to give up celebrating Halloween or goodies like candy, it is a good idea to improve your oral hygiene habits. Be sure to brush and floss more frequently when consuming these products.
Keep Your Smile Looking Its Best at Lovett Dental Missouri City
Braces do not have to limit you too much, especially when you have an orthodontics team that’s ready to help you at any time. Our team can answer any questions or help if you end up with a problem after Halloween this year. Reach out to Lovett Dental Missouri City to let us know how we can help you. Call 281-969-5099 for an appointment.
