The holidays are here, and that means festive gatherings filled with delicious food. If you're wearing braces, you might be worried about navigating the holiday menu without damaging your orthodontic work. The good news is that you don't have to sit out the holiday fun. With a little planning, you can enjoy the season's goodies while keeping your braces safe.
Smart Swaps for Holiday Favorites
Many traditional holiday dishes are already braces-friendly—you just need to know what to look for:
- Choose mashed potatoes over crispy roasted vegetables. Soft, creamy sides are your best friends
- Opt for tender turkey or ham instead of tough, chewy cuts of meat
- Enjoy soft dinner rolls, but skip the crusty artisan bread that could damage brackets
- Say yes to pumpkin pie and other soft desserts, but avoid sticky pecan pie and hard candies
Foods to Skip This Season
Your braces dentist in Aurora, CO, will tell you that some holiday favorites just aren't worth the risk:
- Hard nuts like almonds and walnuts that can break brackets
- Chewy candies, caramels, and toffee that pull on wires and bands
- Popcorn balls and candy canes, which are both bracket-breakers
- Corn on the cob
Making the Most of Holiday Meals
You don't have to feel left out during holiday celebrations. Cut larger foods into bite-sized pieces, chew slowly with your back teeth, and rinse your mouth with water between dishes. If you're hosting, consider preparing extra braces-friendly options so you can enjoy your own party.
When to Call Your Orthodontist
If you do experience a broken bracket or poking wire during the holidays, don't panic. Contact Baller Dental & Ortho at Southlands right away at (720) 653-3223. Dr. Holly Baller and her team can quickly get you back on track.
Remember, your orthodontic treatment is temporary, but your new smile will last a lifetime. A little care now means you'll be showing off those straight teeth at next year's celebrations!