One of the biggest questions kids with braces have in October is, “Can I eat Halloween candy?” The short answer is yes, enjoy yourself! However, it’s important to be mindful of how much sugar you are eating and what candies are likely to break brackets and wires on your braces.
When it comes to orthodontic treatment, sugar can be a real threat to your overall oral health and final result of treatment. Why? Because sugar causes cavities and decalcification. We want you to be in the best of health all of the time, not just when you’re in orthodontic treatment with us here at Fry Orthodontics. Limiting sugar intake is always something we recommend, but we also understand that Halloween is a special time of year that kids want to enjoy!
What’s a Trick and What’s a Treat When It Comes To Braces and Halloween Candy?
Don’t be spooked by the do’s and dont’s of Halloween fun! Here’s a quick list from the Fry Orthodontic Team about what to eat and what to avoid this October:
Sticky Candy (Taffy, Caramel, Gummies & Bubble Gum)
These types of Halloween candy should be avoided while in orthodontic treatment. They can easily get stuck to brackets and wires and make them pop right off the tooth! This would result in you having to come into the office for an additional appointment to get the bracket or wire fixed.
Hard Candy (Jolly Ranchers, Suckers, M&M’s & Skittles
Hard candies are dangerous because people tend to bite down on them. The harm with this and orthodontics is that it can easily break a bracket off or bend a wire. It’s possible to still enjoy these candies if you are careful and let them dissolve in your moth rather than biting into them.
Sour Candy (Sour Patch Kids & Warheads)
The acidic level in these treats are very high which isn’t recommended for children who wear braces. High acidity is detrimental because it can wear down the enamel of your teeth, increasing your likelihood of getting a cavity.
Acceptable Halloween Candy for Kids Who Wear Braces
- Soft Chocolates
- Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups
- Nestle Crunch Bars
- Milk Way Bars
- Cookies
- Kit Kat Bars
- Three Musketeers
- Malt Balls
- Snow Caps
Caring for Your Braces This Halloween
Staying away from sticky, hard and sour candies this Halloween is the main goal for keeping braces intact during this spooky season. In addition, we recommend brushing and flossing teeth immediately after indulging in a sugar session. Make sure to brush extra well around brackets and at the gum line, as well as rinsing everything out after brushing. Even though some candies are safe for your braces, they still contain sugar which can cause those pesky and sometimes painful cavities.
Need More Information on Braces Care & Treatment?
Be sure to stay informed as we get into the holidays about what is good, standard practice for taking care of your braces. Call or visit us today for all of your questions and needs: 913.469.9191