Best Candies You Can Enjoy with Braces in Queens NY!
Got braces in Queens, NY and craving some candy? We know it can be tough to resist sweets, but you don’t have to completely give them up. Choosing the right candies can help protect your braces and keep your smile on track. Here’s a quick guide to enjoying candy without damaging your braces.
Why Certain Candies Are Harmful
Hard, sticky, and chewy candies can wreak havoc on your braces. When you bite into hard candy, it can easily break brackets and bend wires, causing discomfort and requiring extra dental visits. Sticky candies cling to your braces, making it difficult to clean and increasing the risk of cavities. Chewy candies can pull on your braces, potentially loosening them and leading to more problems down the line.
Safe Candy Choices
Chocolate
Plain chocolate bars and pieces like Hershey’s and M&Ms are great options. They melt quickly and don’t stick to your braces.
Soft Candies
Peanut butter cups and soft mints are safe and delicious. They offer a smooth texture that won’t harm your braces.
Sugar-Free Options
Sugar-free gum and sugar-free chocolate provide a sweet fix without the added sugar, which helps in maintaining better oral health.
Fruit Snacks
Opt for gummies that are soft and not sticky. They satisfy your sweet tooth without risking your braces.
Candies to Avoid
Certain candies can cause serious damage to braces, so it’s best to steer clear of them. Hard candies like lollipops and jawbreakers can break brackets and bend wires. Sticky candies such as caramels and taffy cling to braces, making them hard to clean and increasing the risk of cavities. Chewy candies like gummy bears and licorice can pull on your braces, potentially loosening them and causing more problems.
Aftercare When Eating Candies
Rinse Your Mouth
Rinse your mouth with water immediately after eating candy. This helps remove sugar and sticky residues from your braces and teeth.
Brush Thoroughly
Brush your teeth thoroughly after enjoying candy. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to clean around the brackets and wires, ensuring all candy particles are removed.
Floss Carefully
Floss carefully to reach the areas between your teeth and around the braces. Consider using a floss threader or orthodontic floss to make this task easier and more effective.
Use Mouthwash
Use an antibacterial mouthwash to help eliminate any remaining bacteria and keep your mouth clean. This step can further protect your braces and overall oral health.
Check for Damage
After eating candy, check your braces for any signs of damage. If you notice any loose brackets or bent wires, contact your orthodontist as soon as possible to schedule a repair.
Alternatives to Traditional Candy
Fresh Fruit
Choose fresh fruit like berries and melon to satisfy your sweet cravings. These options provide natural sweetness without harming your braces.
Yogurt with Honey or Fruit
Enjoy yogurt topped with honey or fresh fruit. This combination offers a creamy, sweet treat that’s gentle on your braces.
Smoothies
Blend smoothies with natural ingredients. Use fruits, yogurt, and a bit of honey to create a delicious, braces-friendly snack.
Expert Orthodontic Care in Queens, NY
Looking for top-notch orthodontic care to ensure your braces journey is smooth and worry-free? Our experienced team in Queens, NY, specializes in providing personalized care tailored to your needs. We offer guidance on the best dietary choices to protect your braces and keep your smile healthy.
Don’t let candy cravings compromise your orthodontic treatment. Contact us today to book an appointment and get expert advice on maintaining your braces. Your perfect smile starts here!
FAQs
Can I eat ice cream with braces?
Yes, you can eat ice cream as long as it doesn’t contain hard or sticky mix-ins like nuts or caramel. Soft, smooth ice cream is safe and won’t harm your braces.
What drinks should I avoid with braces?
Avoid sugary drinks like soda, fruit juices, and energy drinks. These can increase the risk of cavities and can get trapped around your braces. Opt for water or milk instead.
How often should I visit my orthodontist while I have braces?
You should visit your orthodontist every 4-6 weeks for adjustments and to ensure your treatment is progressing as planned.
Can I eat popcorn with braces?
It’s best to avoid popcorn because the kernels can get stuck in your braces and may cause damage. The hard pieces can also be difficult to clean out completely.
Are there any specific foods I should eat to maintain good oral health with braces?
Yes, focus on eating soft fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and dairy products. These foods are less likely to damage your braces and contribute to overall oral health.
What should I do if a bracket or wire comes loose?
If a bracket or wire comes loose, contact your orthodontist immediately to schedule a repair. In the meantime, you can use orthodontic wax to cover any sharp edges to prevent discomfort.
Can I still play sports with braces?
Yes, you can still play sports with braces, but it’s important to wear a mouthguard to protect your teeth and braces from injury. Your orthodontist can recommend a suitable mouthguard for braces.