Taking Care of Your Teeth and Braces During Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving is a time to indulge in delicious foods and spend quality time with loved ones. However, if you have braces, it’s essential to enjoy the holiday while keeping your orthodontic health in mind. Here are some tips from our San Diego orthodontist to help you care for your teeth and braces during the festivities:

 

1. Choose Braces-Friendly Foods

Thanksgiving dinner offers plenty of options, but some foods can be tricky with braces. Soft, braces-friendly dishes like mashed potatoes, stuffing, turkey, and green bean casserole are great choices. Avoid hard, crunchy, or sticky foods such as nuts, caramel desserts, or raw vegetables that can damage your brackets or wires.

 

2. Cut Food into Small Pieces

Even with braces-friendly options, cutting your food into smaller pieces makes chewing easier and reduces the risk of bending wires or dislodging brackets. Take your time eating and chew carefully to avoid putting unnecessary pressure on your braces.

 

3. Stay Hydrated

Drinking water not only keeps you hydrated but also helps rinse away food particles that can get stuck in your braces. If you’re enjoying beverages like cranberry juice or soda, follow up with water to minimize the effects of sugars and acids on your teeth.

 

4. Brush and Floss Thoroughly

After your Thanksgiving meal, dedicate extra time to brushing and flossing. Use an interdental brush or floss threader to clean around your brackets and wires effectively. This will help remove any trapped food particles and prevent plaque buildup.

 

5. Pack Your Orthodontic Kit

If you’re spending the day away from home, bring a travel-sized toothbrush, toothpaste, floss, and orthodontic wax. Being prepared ensures you can maintain your oral hygiene no matter where you are. If you need some extra tools, don't hesitate to ask Dr. Lee during your next visit!

 

With a little extra care, you can enjoy Thanksgiving while keeping your braces and teeth healthy. Happy Thanksgiving from our San Diego orthodontist and team at Torrey Hills Orthodontics!