With Valentine’s Day coming up around the corner, many people are looking to have a sweet and loving day with their special someone. Braces can make it trickier to enjoy this special day. No one wants to break a bracket and ruin the mood. If you’re looking to receive orthodontics in Chandler, keep reading this blog to learn about tips and tricks to ensure you are making the most out of your Valentine’s day with braces this year.
Remember to Show Your Braces Some Love
While Valentine’s day is meant to be celebrated between you and your other half, remember to pay attention to your braces as well! Whether you are indulging in a decadent dessert, dinner, or snack, it’s important to brush and rinse as you normally do. Your oral hygiene routine doesn’t stop on a holiday!
Watch Out For Those Chocolates!
Chocolates and Valentine’s basically go hand in hand. However, these decadent treats are often filled with caramel, nuts, and other things that can damage your braces. Take a second to look at the little sheet to find out what’s what before you indulge. Toffee and caramel can easily damage your brackets. Don’t hesitate to get in touch with an orthodontist near you if you accidentally indulged and broke a bracket.
Avoid Those Tempting Snacks
It may be tempting to snack on some nuts, caramels, or even lollipops. Avoid gifting your sweetheart these treats, try more braces-friendly options, such as:
- A fruit bouquet or chocolate-covered strawberries
- Soft chocolates like truffles without sticky fillings
- Soft cookies
- Ice cream or milkshakes
Swap Your Chocolates and Candies For Other Desserts
While candies and chocolates are typically associated with Valentine’s, a cake or softer baked goods can be a great alternative for those undergoing orthodontic treatment. They’ll be easier on your braces and are just as scrumptious!
Cut Your Food Into Bite-Sized Pieces
Take your time and cut your food into smaller bites to minimize the chances of a wire or bracket breaking.
Kissing With Braces?
Of course, Valentine’s day wouldn’t be complete without a smooch. Many people may wonder if it’s safe to be kissing with braces. The short answer is yes. However, there are a few things you should take note of. First, be mindful of your brackets as you do not want them scratching or snagging their lips. You can apply dental wax on your front brackets first to ensure there will be no discomfort from the braces.
More importantly, be sure you are rinsing and brushing before you spice things up! The brackets and wires make it very easy to trap excess food bits. Not only is it gross to have leftover food particles, but they can also make your breath smell bad! A quick brush and rinse will ensure you have fresh breath.
What Are Braces-Friendly Gifts To Get Your Valentine?
Sticky and hard treats are definitely out of the question this year. Aside from snacks, some of the following are great gifts that won’t break the bracket:
- A dinner and movie (without the popcorn, of course!)
- Flowers
- A card
- Home-made gifts
- A gift card to their favourite frozen yogurt or ice cream shop
Looking For Braces in Chandler?
Undergoing orthodontic treatment is a great investment to achieve a beautiful smile. Braces don’t have to make your special day less romantic than usual! With these tips and tricks, you are sure to have an enjoyable holiday while straightening your smile! Remember to show your smile some love as well. If you happen to break a bracket, Dr. Ousama El-Hillal will gladly fix it as soon as you can come in. If you have any questions about receiving braces near you, please feel free to contact us. We hope everyone has a wonderful Valentine’s day and a lovely smile!