Halloween is a fun time of the year for kids of all ages…but it can be a ‘nightmare’ for an orthodontic practice if patients damage appliances by eating the wrong treats.
At Hage Orthodontics we love a Halloween! However, we also try to be proactive about educating patients and parents of the potential hazards that can occur if orthodontic patients don’t watch what they eat.
October is National Orthodontic Health Month. Dr. Michael Hage supports the American Association of Orthodontics in their efforts to make patients aware of foods they need to avoid, especially Halloween goodies.
Patients still can enjoy treats…just orthodontic friendly treats.
In general, look for foods that are soft and easy to chew.
- Soft, melt-in-your-mouth chocolates
- Peanut butter cups
- Milk shakes
- Jello
- Peeled, thinly sliced apples
- Ice cream
Try to avoid treats that are sticky, hard, chewy or crunchy
- Caramel
- Nuts (including candies that contain nuts)
- Licorice, jelly beans or taffy
- Hard pretzels
- Bubblegum
- Candy Corn
- Lollipops
- Popcorn (including unpopped kernels)
- Taco Chips
- Ice
A few sweets can be okay occasionally, provided that the orthodontic patient remembers to brush and floss after eating. Stick to the guidelines above so you can enjoy the holiday and still be on pace to achieve a healthy, beautiful smile!