Braces-Friendly Options for Summer Party Treats

For some of us, summer is the best time of year. The summer sun, barbecuing, bonfires, and best of all; the food! Those of us with traditional braces or clear aligners like Invisalign know about the constant struggles that come with enjoying traditional summer treats.

We have some small tricks for you so that you don’t have to worry about those endless seeds stuck in your teeth!

• Toothpicks are your best friends! - Carrying around some toothpicks in your bag will be the most helpful thing for your smile. If seeds or food ever get stuck in your mouth, the toothpick is there for a quick pick-me-up!
• Choose what you eat wisely. Making small swaps to your diet will immediately help your teeth Switch from berries to seedless fruit, cubed to crushed ice, and choosing a veggie tray over chips are all small changes you can make! Click here to read the full article on our website!
• Keep up with brushing! - Brushing your teeth regularly will have your smile looking brighter than the sun itself!
• Don’t forget about your regular cleaning - Most people over look this task, but it is so important to fit this time in. Before diving into the pool, give your orthodontist a call for a quick check up.

At Stieper & Brust Orthodontics, we’re committed to helping you enjoy summer and the delicious foods that come with it while keeping your smile healthy at the same time.

Enjoy all of your favorite summer foods even while having braces!

 Can’t seem to find the middle ground maintaining your beautiful smile while still enjoying yummy summer foods? Trying to find healthier options for summer treats?

Bring on the summer treats now that warm weather is here! Your mind is now overtaken with the thoughts of barbecuing, sweet fruit, and tasty cold treats to cool you off. However, this time of the year can be tricky for those of us with traditional braces or clear aligners like Invisalign.

We’ve created some simple summer tricks to help you fulfill your summer treat needs while still caring for your teeth!

• Veggie over everything - According to the American Dental Association, carrots, celery and raw broccoli are like natural toothbrushes! Choose a veggie tray instead of chips and dip at your party to satisfy that need for a crunch, but stay away from the chips that often end up settling in the pits of your teeth
• More cheese, please! - Dairy products like milk, yogurt, and cheese are low in sugar but rich in calcium, which can strengthen and protect enamel.
• Go seedless - Try to stay away from seeds by going for hotdog and hamburger buns without sesame and poppy seeds. For fruit options, try to stay away from raspberries, kiwis, and blackberries, which have small seeds that get easily stuck in teeth.
• Look out for ice - Crunching on hard foods like ice can cause broken teeth and can damage enamel. Crushed iced cubes are a better option for your guests.
• Stay away from soda! - Water is one of the best things you can drink, especially on hot days when it’s so important to stay hydrated. To satisfy a sweet tooth, try infused water!

Take care of your teeth and save money on the cost of braces in the long run with these tips and more! Our friendly team of orthodontists have the knowledge to answer any of your questions and will make sure you’re comfortable with your braces or Invisalign. Contact us today! We want to make sure your smile is as bright as ever!