Celebrations and parties are great ways to celebrate milestones, achievements, and happy moments in life. However, people with braces might feel a bit uneasy about how to enjoy their favorite foods and drinks, without risking their braces.

Braces are delicate and require extra care and precautions while celebrating. Eating your favorite foods and snacks is still possible if you know how to handle your braces and choose the right food items.

In this guide, we will go through some essential tips to make sure your celebrations are safe and enjoyable for you and your braces.

1. Choose Wisely

The easiest way to avoid any mishap is to choose the right type of food. Avoid hard, chewy, and sticky food items. They can damage your braces and wires, causing pain and discomfort.

Hard candies, popcorn, nuts, bubble gum, and ice cubes should be avoided altogether. Opt for soft and easy-to-chew foods, like mashed potatoes, soups, and well-cooked vegetables. If you are unsure, test the texture of food by pressing them with your tongue or fingers.

2. Cut it Down

If you are craving a hard or crunchy food item, cut them into small pieces. For example, you can slice your sandwiches, fruits, and vegetables into bite-sized pieces, make pizza slices smaller, or cut your chicken into small chunks.

This way, you can enjoy your favorite food without putting extra pressure on your braces, and they will be much easier to chew.

3. Take Small Bites

When enjoying crunchy food, take small bites and chew them slowly. This way, you can avoid putting excessive pressure on your braces and avoid toothache. Swallow the food as soon as possible and avoid holding the food in your mouth for a long time.

Gulping down large pieces can also cause difficulty in swallowing or choking.

4. Say No to Carbonated Drinks

Carbonated drinks can be damaging to your braces and cause stains on your teeth. Avoid drinks like soda, energy drinks, and beer. If you wish to consume drinks, opt for non-carbonated beverages such as water, natural juices, milk, or iced tea.

Drinking through a straw can also reduce the amount of liquid that comes into contact with your braces and prevent any damage.

5. Brush Before and After

Regular brushing and flossing are essential while you are wearing braces. Make sure to brush thoroughly before and after consuming any food or drinks. Keeping the teeth, braces, and wires clean can prevent plaque buildup, decay, and discomfort.

Always carry a toothbrush and toothpaste with you if possible, and brush your teeth as soon as you can.

6. Protect Your Braces

To protect your braces while celebrating, consider wearing a mouthguard during sports activities. A mouthguard can help to cushion the impact and reduce the risk of any damage.

Additionally, avoid biting on any hard objects like pens, pencils, or fingernails. This can lead to broken or loose braces and wires.

7. Schedule Regular Appointments

Scheduling regular appointments with your orthodontist is essential while you have braces. It allows them to inspect your braces’ condition, monitor the progress, and provide any necessary adjustments.

Regular appointments can also help you to identify any problems and alleviate your concerns.

8. Seek Professional Help in Urgent Cases

In case of any emergency, like a broken wire or brackets, immediately seek an orthodontist’s professional help. They can provide you with the right guidance and fix the issue without causing further discomfort or pain.

Ignoring any problems can worsen the situation, leading to longer treatment duration and more discomfort.

9. Avoid Food with High Sugar Content

Foods with high sugar content like candies, chocolates, cakes, and cookies are not suitable for you and your braces. Consuming such food can cause tooth decay, cavities, and other dental problems.

Besides, they can stick to your braces and wires, creating plaque and other dental ailments. Instead, opt for sugar-free or low-sugar alternatives like fruits, yogurt, or dark chocolate.

10. Enjoy the Moment

Finally, don’t let your braces stop you from enjoying the moment and having fun. They are a temporary part of your journey towards a healthy and beautiful smile. Celebrate your accomplishments, milestones, and happy moments with your loved ones.

Follow these simple tips, choose wisely, and enjoy your favorite foods and drinks without worrying about your braces.