Candy and Braces: What Treats are Safe to Eat?

Eating TreatsIt’s that time of year when candy is almost impossible to avoid. But if you or your child has braces, you know that this is sticky territory, quite literally.

Avoiding candy is a good plan, but it’s going to be hard right now. If you are going to indulge, just make sure you avoid the real dangers and stick to things that won’t make you regret your sweet treats.

Some candies are going to cause trouble, and you should use common sense when considering whether or not to eat certain candy if you have braces. Below are some recommendations, but this is not even close to a complete list. If you’re ever unsure, just avoid it. You’re truly better off safe than sorry.

Soft, Melty Candy 

The rule of thumb for people with braces is to only eat candy that’s soft or melty. That means candies like Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups and 3 Musketeers Bars are okay. Plain chocolate is also okay, as well as anything that just melts on your tongue.

Dangerous Candies and Rules of Thumb 

The candy bars that will get you into trouble are sticky or gooey. Anything with nougat or caramel will be incredibly hard to eat and will cause problems with braces. Babe Ruth bars, Charleston Chews, Butterfingers, Smarties, Tootsie Rolls, and other chewy candies are a bad idea. Also avoid anything with a hard shell, such as Skittles and M&Ms.

You’re better off avoiding sugar entirely, as you probably know. But if you must indulge, be careful about what you eat this year. In the future, when your braces in Surrey are off, you’ll be able to enjoy those chewy, gooey candies again. For now, take a break.

And always brush your teeth to avoid problems with cavities due to sugar!

Happy Halloween!

Dr Wang

Dr. Wang, DDS, MSc, FRCD(C)

ORTHODONTIST

Orthodontic specialist, founder of PacificWest Dental Group. Helping people get the perfect smile since 1994!

Dr Kevin

Dr. Kevin Lee, DMD, MSc, FRCD(C)

ORTHODONTIST

Specialist in Orthodontics, UBC alumni. Love helping patients get a beautiful smile. Part-time clinical instructor at UBC. 

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