Halloween Candy and Your Braces

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By Suter Orthodontics

Trick or treat season is here! You might have heard that Halloween candy and your braces can be a bad combo, and that’s true! But not when you choose braces-safe candy! Here’s how to know which options are safe for braces.

Candies to Avoid When You Have Braces

Let’s talk about Halloween candy and your braces. It’s hard to think of Halloween without thinking of candy. From candy corn to caramel-dipped apples to lugging around a trick-or-treat bag full of candy, sweet treats are a big part of the fun!

Unfortunately, some candy can be hard on your braces and might even damage them! That’s why it’s a good idea to learn about which types of candy are safe and which types to avoid when you have braces.

As a general rule, we recommend avoiding any types of candy that are sticky, chewy, crunchy, hard, that contain nuts, or require biting into with your front teeth (like a candy apple). There can be some exceptions, though! For example, if you break small pieces off of a hard block of chocolate or if you are extra careful to suck on a hard candy until the very end and avoid chewing it, it might be a safe option! It’s always wise to check with your orthodontist first if you’re not sure about a particular type of candy!

Better Candy Ideas!

The good news is that you can still enjoy lots of different types of candy with your braces! Any candy that melts in your mouth can be an excellent choice. Chocolate is a great example of a melt-in-your-mouth candy. Sugar-free varieties are also an option because they help to protect your teeth as well as your braces (since lots of sugar can contribute to dental cavities).

Other Spooky Treat Ideas!

There are also lots of great treats that can be braces-safe alternatives to candy. Baked goods can be especially tasty and gentle on your braces. A quick online search will turn up dozens of recipes to help you get started on ideas for spooky-themed, homemade baked treats.

If you want to learn more or have additional questions about Halloween candy and your braces, don’t be afraid to reach out to your orthodontist for additional tips and advice! They will be your best resource in navigating life with braces and want to help you take good care of your braces without missing out on the fun!

Call our Colorado Springs Dental Office to make an appointment with a dentist who may be able to help you find out more about this topic, and improve your oral health.

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