Halloween is right around the corner, bringing with it festivities, candies, and sweets. While sugary treats are a staple this time of year, it is more important than ever to be mindful of orthodontic and dental care to keep your smile healthy and clean. To help you out as you navigate this sweet season, here are some expert tips that will keep your smile looking its best this Halloween and beyond!
Do remember to maintain regular dental care routines.
Especially during a holiday known for collecting and eating candy, it is crucial to maintain good oral hygiene when you have braces. Always brush your teeth twice a day (or after eating) for two minutes with fluoride toothpaste. Remember to floss and remove plaque stuck in your braces or teeth. Finally, replace your toothbrush every three months to keep that smile healthy.
Don’t snack on and off throughout the day and night.
Saliva production helps maintain the pH balance in your mouth and rinse away food particles. Because saliva production increases during mealtimes, it’s best to have Halloween candy or other sugary foods around the time you eat a meal. Snacking intermittently on sweets can increase your risk of cavities because there is less saliva to mitigate the bacteria or acid in the mouth.
Do choose candy carefully.
You can still satisfy your sweet tooth without compromising your dental health! Soft chocolates like HERSHEY’S Bars, REESE’S Cups, and 3 Musketeers are great options for maintaining a healthy smile this Halloween. Avoid chocolates with nuts or caramel inside, like SNICKERS®.
Don’t get into a sticky situation.
Sticky, chewy, or gummy candies put your wires and brackets at risk. Sticky candies get stuck to the grooves of teeth and increase the likelihood of cavities and tooth decay, making them the worst kind of candy not only for your oral health but for your orthodontic treatment as well.
Do treat yourself to sweet options beyond the candy bag.
While candy is always a Halloween staple, you can encourage your family and friends to enjoy more braces-friendly treats, such as fruit, milkshakes, or cookies.
Don’t forget to drink water.
Staying hydrated is a must for all days, especially on Halloween. Water can loosen and wash away food that gets stuck in braces. Fluoridated water can even help prevent tooth decay, so be sure to stay hydrated to keep your body and mouth in tip-top shape.
Keeping healthy braces habits this Halloween and beyond will fuel your healthiest and happiest smile yet. If you have any questions about orthodontic care or want to schedule an appointment, call us today. From all of us at Carolina Braces, we hope you have a happy and safe Halloween!