This article will cover what candy you can eat with braces, candies to avoid, tips for enjoying candy with braces, and maintaining oral hygiene while indulging in sweets. Wearing braces often leads to questions about what candies you can eat with braces without damaging your orthodontic appliances. While it’s crucial to avoid certain types of candy that might harm your braces, many delicious options are still available. 

So What Candy Can You Eat With Braces?

Although braces require you to be cautious with your candy choices, there are still plenty of treats you can enjoy. Here are three types of candies that are generally safe for those with braces:

1. Soft and melt-in-your-mouth candies: Candies like marshmallows, soft chocolates, and peanut butter cups dissolve easily in your mouth, minimizing the risk of damaging your braces. Remember to brush your teeth thoroughly afterward to remove any leftover sugar.
2. Sugar-free candies: Sugar-free candies, sweetened with artificial sweeteners such as xylitol or stevia, are a great alternative. These candies reduce the risk of tooth decay and are less likely to stick to your braces.
3. Gelatin-based candies: Gelatin-based candies like gummy worms, jelly beans, and fruit snacks are soft and easily chewable, making them less likely to cause damage. However, be mindful of small pieces that might get stuck in your braces and clean your teeth thoroughly afterward.

While these candies are considered safe, it’s essential to enjoy them in moderation and maintain good oral hygiene. Regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups will help keep your braces and teeth in excellent condition. If you have concerns about specific candies, consult your orthodontist for guidance.

Candies to Avoid with Braces

Some candies can pose a risk to your orthodontic treatment by potentially damaging your braces. Here are three categories of candies you should avoid:

1. Hard and chewy candies: Candies that are hard or require excessive chewing can put too much pressure on your braces, leading to broken brackets and wires. Examples include jawbreakers, hard candies, taffy, and caramels. Avoid these to prevent unwanted orthodontic issues.
2. Sticky and gummy candies: Sticky and gummy candies can easily get stuck in your braces, making it difficult to clean your teeth effectively. These include gummy bears, fruit roll-ups, caramels, and toffee. Consuming these increases the risk of cavities and other dental problems, so it’s best to avoid them.
3. Candies with nuts or hard pieces: Candies containing nuts or hard pieces can damage your braces by causing brackets to come loose or breaking wires. Examples include peanut brittle, nut-filled chocolates, and hard candies with nuts. Avoid these to protect your braces.

While avoiding these candies is important, there are still plenty of treats you can enjoy with braces. Soft chocolates, ice cream, and smoothies are great options that won’t harm your braces. Maintain good oral hygiene by brushing and flossing regularly, and visit your orthodontist for routine check-ups.

Tips for Enjoying Candy with Braces

Taking extra care of your teeth is essential when you have braces. Here are some tips for enjoying candy without causing damage:

1. Brushing and flossing after consuming candy: After eating candy, brush your teeth thoroughly to remove any sugary residue that can lead to tooth decay. Flossing is also essential to remove trapped food particles between your teeth and braces.
2. Eating candies in moderation: Enjoy candies in moderation, even if they are braces-friendly. Excessive consumption of sugary treats can still lead to cavities and other dental issues. Balance your candy intake with a healthy diet.
3. Using braces-friendly alternatives to satisfy cravings: Opt for soft candies like marshmallows or chocolates that melt easily in your mouth. Fruit-based snacks like frozen grapes or sliced apples are also good alternatives that are less likely to damage your braces.

By following these tips, you can enjoy candies while minimizing the risk of damage. Consult your orthodontist for specific recommendations based on your treatment plan and stay committed to your oral hygiene routine.

Maintaining Oral Hygiene with Braces

Good oral hygiene is crucial when you have braces. Regular brushing and flossing help prevent tooth decay and gum disease. Here are some tips for maintaining oral hygiene with braces:

First, brush your teeth after every meal or at least twice a day using a soft-bristle toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Pay extra attention to clean around each bracket and wire to ensure thorough cleaning.

Flossing is equally important. Orthodontic floss threaders or special floss designed for braces can help you navigate around the wires. Floss at least once a day, preferably before bedtime, to remove any remaining food particles and plaque.

Using orthodontic tools can enhance your cleaning routine. Interdental brushes can effectively clean between brackets and wires, while a proxabrush can help clean hard-to-reach areas. Your orthodontist can recommend appropriate tools and demonstrate their use for optimal results.

Lastly, schedule regular check-ups with your orthodontist. These visits are crucial for monitoring your progress, making adjustments to your braces, and ensuring everything is on track. Your orthodontist will also perform professional cleanings to remove any stubborn plaque or tartar buildup.

Now that you know what candy you can eat with braces, and by following these tips and maintaining a consistent oral hygiene routine, you can keep your teeth and gums healthy while wearing braces while promoting a healthy smile and enjoying something sweet!