Be Mindful of Holiday Foods
Food is at the center of many holiday traditions, but not all seasonal favorites are safe for braces. Sticky candies, nut-filled desserts, caramel-coated treats, and hard foods like corn on the cob or crunchy breads can easily damage brackets and wires. Even with ceramic or metal braces, one wrong bite can lead to a loose bracket or bent wire.
Instead, choose soft, braces-friendly options such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, sliced turkey, casseroles, and pies without nuts. If you’re wearing clear orthodontic aligners, you’ll remove them while eating, but you’ll still want to avoid foods that can damage your teeth or get stuck in hard-to-clean areas. Taking a few extra seconds to think before you bite can prevent an emergency trip to our St. Johns orthodontist during your holiday plans.
Don’t Forget Your Oral Hygiene Routine
With busy schedules and special events, it’s easy to let good habits slide. However, maintaining consistent oral hygiene is essential for preventing issues like inflamed gums, plaque buildup, or discomfort from trapped food.
Aim to brush after every meal or at least twice a day, and continue using floss threaders, interdental brushes, or water flossers to clean around metal or ceramic braces. If you wear clear aligners, rinse them often and clean them as directed to avoid staining and odor. A small travel-size oral care kit can make it easier to stick with your routine, no matter where the holidays take you.
Pack an Orthodontic Care Kit
Preparing a simple orthodontic kit can save you a lot of stress if something minor comes up. Consider packing orthodontic wax, a travel toothbrush, fluoride toothpaste, floss or floss threaders, and over-the-counter pain relievers. Orthodontic wax is especially helpful for covering sharp edges from poking wires or broken brackets until you can schedule an appointment.
If you’re wearing clear aligners, include a protective case so you never have to set them down on a napkin or table. This is one of the most common ways aligners get lost. Having these items on hand ensures you’re ready for anything, even when traveling or attending holiday events.
Know When to Call Our Orthodontist
Even with careful planning, emergencies can still happen. If a wire is causing significant discomfort, a bracket has fallen off, or an aligner cracks, it’s best to contact our orthodontist in St. Johns, FL, for guidance. Many issues can be managed temporarily at home, but others may require professional care.