As a parent, you naturally want your child to be able to join in on all the fun during Halloween, but if they’re wearing braces, you’ll need to take extra precautions to make sure the treats they enjoy don’t end up sending them to an orthodontist in Kittanning for an emergency appointment. Here are 4 tips to help your little one enjoys October 31st without putting their smile in jeopardy.
1. Know What to Avoid
As you were probably warned when your child first got braces, sticky, chewy candy like caramel, bubblegum and taffy can stick to the metal brackets, bands and wires. In the worst-case scenario, they might end up pulling these parts off. Your child will also need to avoid hard candies like jawbreakers or those that contain nuts and almonds; biting into them could damage their braces. Popcorn and hard pretzels can cause similar problems.
2. Make Sure They Have Plenty of “Safe” Treats
Your child might be frustrated at the thought of everything they can’t have with braces, so take the time to remind them that there are still plenty of candies they can enjoy. In general, anything made of soft chocolate is fine if it doesn’t contain nuts or caramel, although you should break large candy bars into smaller pieces first. You might also treat your child to other sweet snacks (in moderation, of course) like gelatin, ice cream, smoothies, root beer floats and apple cider.
3. Remind Them to Brush
More candy means a higher risk of cavities. Children with braces need to be especially careful; the metal brackets and wires make it more difficult to clean the tooth itself, and that’s not even considering the plaque that builds up on the metal parts. As such, it’s especially important for someone wearing braces to brush at least twice a day (three times if possible). In general, it’s better to use nonabrasive toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush so that your little one doesn’t accidentally damage their appliance – or their teeth!
4. Make Sure They’re Practicing Good Oral Hygiene All Year
It’ll be easier to protect your child’s smile during Halloween if you make sure they’re committed to protecting their braces throughout the year. Make sure they already know what kind of treats to avoid and encourage them to take good care of their braces every day. By making it a habit, you’ll greatly decrease the risk of something going wrong during the Halloween season.
If you’re not sure what the best strategy for protecting braces is, talk to your orthodontist or dentist in Kittanning. That way, you’ll know exactly what to avoid while also putting together a fun Halloween experience; just because your child is having their teeth adjusted doesn’t mean they have to miss out on the festivities!
About the Author
Dr. Ray Voller graduated from the University of Pittsburgh School of Dental Medicine in 1980, and he’s been practicing in Kittanning ever since. Orthodontics is among his primary interests regarding modern dentistry. He offers traditional metal braces as well as clear aligners to correct smiles young and old. To schedule an appointment at his practice, Voller Dentistry, visit his website or call (724) 543-4948.