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Orthodontic Tips for Spooktacular Halloween

Orthodontic Tips for Spooktacular Halloween
It’s October and the beautiful fall season is in full swing. Autumn breeze is in the air, picturesque fall color leaves are falling, pumpkin pie and pumpkin spice lattes seem to be everywhere and of course it's Halloween time! For Orchard of Smiles Orthodontics and other orthodontists, October is also a month to recognize their patients' beautiful, healthy smiles in honor of National Orthodontic Health Month. This is a perfect time to review a few helpful orthodontic tips from our office and the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) to embrace the Halloween season fully.
If you have orthodontic fixed appliances in place you may be wondering if you can still have Halloween candy. The answer is Yes! However, you should stay away from hard and sticky candy that can damage your braces or other orthodontic fixed appliances. Broken braces can lead to discomfort, may require an extra repair appointment to your orthodontist and may extend your time in braces.
Please avoid sticky candy:
- Caramels
- Tootsie Rolls
- Gum
- Taffy
- Jellybeans
- Skittles
- Licorice
Please avoid hard treats:
- Candy with nuts (Snickers, Payday, Almond Joy)
- Popcorn
- Toffee or Brittle
- Candied or Caramel Apple
We recommend softer candy and treats that melt in your mouth, including:
- Kit Kat bars
- Marshmallows
- Dark chocolate
- Soft cookies
- Three Musketeers
- Ice cream
- Milkshakes and smoothies
- Peanut Butter Cups
- Hershey Kisses
As a reminder, eating Halloween candy can also be damaging to your teeth and gums if proper oral hygiene is not followed. Any type of sugary snacks can accumulate around braces and orthodontic fixed appliances. If not cleaned properly, sugary treats can lead to cavities or gum disease such as gingivitis. Please remember to establish a regular oral hygiene regimen that involves preventive measures; it can help avoid tooth decay and promote healthier gums. We recommend brushing two to three times per day with an electric toothbrush, flossing daily, using a Waterpik and rinsing with a fluoridated mouth rinse daily. Happy Halloween! If you have any questions, please contact our team at Orchard of Smiles Orthodontics.