Which Candies Are the Worst for My Braces or Invisalign?

Which Candies Are the Worst for My Braces or Invisalign?

Halloween is over and now we have sacks of goodies to sort through and eat- Which should be avoided when wearing braces or Invisalign? In this blog post, we’ll explore some of the worst Halloween candies for your braces or Invisalign and provide you with some alternative treats that you can enjoy guilt-free. 

Sticky and Chewy Candies

Sticky and chewy candies like caramel, taffy, gummy bears, and fruit chews are among the worst choices for anyone with braces or Invisalign. These candies can get easily stuck in the wires and brackets of your braces, making it difficult to clean properly. When these candies adhere to your orthodontic appliances, it creates a breeding ground for harmful bacteria that can lead to tooth decay, gum problems, and even white spots on your teeth.

If you’re an Invisalign wearer, sticky candies can be equally problematic. Chewing on them can damage your clear aligners, not to mention that the sugar can seep into the aligners, increasing the risk of cavities and bad breath. It’s best to steer clear of these treats or choose alternatives.

Hard Candies

Hard candies like jawbreakers, lollipops, and butterscotch candies pose a different set of challenges for those with braces or Invisalign. Biting down on hard candies can potentially break your brackets or wires, leading to painful orthodontic emergencies and additional trips to the orthodontist. Invisalign wearers aren’t exempt from this concern, as biting on hard candies can distort the shape of the aligners, compromising their effectiveness.

If you enjoy hard candies, it’s essential to avoid them while undergoing orthodontic treatment. Consider trying soft candies or opting for candy alternatives like sugar-free gum or mints.

Sour Candies

Sour candies like sour gummies, Warheads, and Sour Patch Kids are a double threat to your oral health. First, they are often sticky and can adhere to your braces or Invisalign, creating the risk of cavities and other dental issues. Second, their high acidity can erode tooth enamel, leaving your teeth vulnerable to decay and sensitivity.

To satisfy your sour cravings, consider trying sugar-free alternatives or choosing a less acidic treat. Remember to rinse your mouth with water after indulging in sour candies to help neutralize the acid and protect your teeth.

Candy with Hard Coatings

Some candies have hard coatings that can be especially problematic for those with braces. Examples include candies with colorful shells or those coated in candy glazes. These hard coatings can not only damage your orthodontic appliances but also create a breeding ground for bacteria.

For a safer option, bring your haul of candies to either of the Tringas Orthodontics locations in Windermere or Lake Nona/St Cloud and the friendly staff will happily pay you $1 per pound – Now that’s an offer you can sink your teeth into!