Are you wondering what candy you can eat with braces? As a braces wearer, you may be concerned about what candy you can safely indulge in without damaging your braces or causing discomfort. While some candies can pose a risk to your braces, there are still plenty of options that you can enjoy.
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends avoiding hard, sticky, and chewy candies that can damage your braces or get stuck between your teeth. Instead, opt for softer, melt-in-your-mouth candies like chocolate or peanut butter cups.
However, it’s important to still enjoy these treats in moderation and always brush and floss your teeth after consuming candy. In this article, we’ll look at what candy you can eat with braces and provide a list of options for you to try.
Types of Candy to Avoid
When you have braces, it’s essential to avoid certain types of candy that can damage your orthodontic appliances and prolong your treatment. Here are the types of candy you should steer clear of:
1. Hard Candy
Hard candy is one of the biggest culprits for damaging braces. These candies can easily break brackets or wires and can even loosen them. Some examples of hard candy to avoid include jawbreakers, lollipops, and mints.
2. Sticky Candy
Sticky candy can also be problematic for braces. These candies can get stuck in your brackets and wires, making it difficult to clean your teeth properly. Some examples of sticky candy to avoid include caramels, toffee, and gummies.
3. Chewy Candy
Chewy candy can be just as bad as sticky candy regarding braces. These candies can also get stuck in your brackets and wires and can even pull them off. Some examples of chewy candy to avoid include taffy, licorice, and Starburst.
To summarize, when you have braces, avoiding hard, sticky, and chewy candies is best. These types of candy can cause damage to your braces and prolong your treatment. Instead, choose softer, easier-to-chew candies like chocolate or peanut butter cups. Remember always to brush and floss your teeth after eating candy to prevent cavities or decay.
Candy That Can Be Eaten with Braces
When you have braces, it’s essential to be mindful of what you eat, especially when it comes to candy. While some candies can be harmful to your braces, there are still plenty of options that you can enjoy. Here are some candy options that are safe to eat with braces:
1. Soft Chocolate
Soft chocolate candies like Hershey’s Kisses, Milky Way, and 3 Musketeers are great options for those with braces. They melt in your mouth and won’t get stuck in your braces. However, avoid chocolate candies that contain nuts or caramel, as these can damage your braces.
2. Smooth Peanut Butter Cups
Peanut butter cups like Reese’s are another great option. They are soft and won’t damage your braces. However, avoid peanut butter cups that contain nuts or crispy rice, as these can get stuck in your braces.
3. Thin Mints
Thin mints are an excellent option for those who love minty chocolate. They are thin and won’t get stuck in your braces. However, be sure to avoid any chocolate candies that are hard or crunchy, as these can damage your braces.
4. Sugar-Free Gum
Sugar-free gum is an excellent option for those who want to freshen their breath without damaging their braces. It’s essential to choose sugar-free gum, as sugary gum can cause tooth decay. However, avoid any gum that is too sticky, as it can get stuck in your braces.
In conclusion, there are still plenty of candy options that you can enjoy with braces. Just be sure to choose soft, melt-in-your-mouth candies that won’t get stuck in your braces. And remember to brush and floss regularly to keep your teeth and braces clean and healthy.
Tips for Eating Candy with Braces
When you have braces, you must be mindful of what you eat, including candy. But that doesn’t mean you can’t indulge in a sweet treat occasionally. Here are some tips to help you enjoy candy while keeping your braces in good condition.
1. Brush and Floss After Eating
Brushing and flossing after eating candy is crucial for maintaining good oral hygiene. This is especially important when you have braces, as candy can quickly get stuck in the brackets and wires. Be sure to use a soft-bristled toothbrush and floss threader to clean between the wires and your teeth.
2. Cut Candy into Small Pieces
Cutting candy into small pieces can help prevent damage to your braces. Hard and chewy candies can be particularly problematic, so it’s best to cut them into smaller pieces that are easier to chew. This will also help prevent any pieces from getting stuck in your braces.
3. Avoid Biting or Chewing on Candy
Biting or chewing on candy can cause damage to your braces. This is especially true for hard candies and sticky candies, which can easily break or dislodge brackets and wires. Instead, try sucking on candy or letting it dissolve in your mouth.
By following these tips, you can enjoy candy while keeping your braces in good condition. Remember to brush and floss after eating candy, cut candy into small pieces, and avoid biting or chewing on candy.
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