The Best Orthodontic-Friendly Halloween Candy

After having your braces put on, your dentist went over a few dietary instructions, which included not eating candy. However, Halloween is right around the corner. You don’t have to worry about fighting your sweet tooth while passing out candy to trick-or-treaters. Orthodontic associations recommend following a few tips before sneaking a piece of candy.

1. Skip Sticky or Chewy Candy

Sticky and chewy candy clings to your teeth, leaving behind residue that can erode your enamel. It’s already difficult to remove with no braces, but brackets and wires can make a sticky situation much worse. Avoid caramel, taffy, licorice, gum, and other sticky sweet treats. 

2. Choose Soft Candy

Soft candy, like a chocolate bar, is much less damaging to your teeth and braces. However, avoid soft candy that contains nuts, caramel, and other ingredients that can create a problem. Chocolate and similar candies are less likely to linger in your mouth because your saliva can cleanse it from your teeth quicker. 

3. Avoid Hard Candy

Jawbreakers, lollipops, and other hard candy provide savory treats, but you must hold them in your mouth to dissolve. This bathes your teeth in cavity-causing sugar for longer. Chewing them isn’t any better. Not only can it lead to a broken bracket or wire, but you can end up needing an emergency dentist for a fractured tooth.

Protect Your Smile from Cavities

Although you’ll have to deal with some restrictions, you can still have a few pieces of candy. October isn’t just about Halloween. It’s also National Orthodontic Health Month. Here are tips from professionals to help you navigate the spooky day without damaging your braces or teeth:

• Brush More Often: If you’re snacking more often or eating candy, brush your teeth after every meal. Pay extra attention when cleaning around your brackets, where cavity-causing bacteria can hide. Don’t forget to floss every day.
• Eat Candy with a Meal: Don’t snack on candy throughout the day because it increases the frequency your teeth are exposed to sugar. Instead, eat it with a meal. Saliva production increases when you’re eating, which cleanses your mouth.
• Drink More Water: Dehydration can make your mouth dry, which creates a great breeding environment for oral bacteria. Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated and keep your mouth moist. Every sip will also rinse your mouth to keep it clean in between brushing and flossing.

Halloween doesn’t have to come back to haunt your dental health or orthodontic treatment. You can keep your teeth and gums healthy to ensure there aren’t any delays in your journey to a straight smile. 

About Dr. Aaron Springhetti

Dr. Springhetti achieved his dental degree from the University of Louisville School of Dentistry and has continued his education regularly in various specialties, including dental implants, oral surgery, and cosmetic dentistry. Request an appointment online or call (317) 886-1304.