People with braces continuously look for tasty snacks that are easy to eat and would not damage their braces. But whenever they discover something, they always wonder, is it safe?
Such a snack is the popular Hot Pockets, a combination of various meat and cheese all wrapped up in a soft dough. It’s all goodness in one bite, so people are dealing with a difficult question – can you eat hot pockets with braces?
Can you eat hot pockets with braces?
The answer is no. It is not advisable to eat hot pockets with braces. The main reason is that the hot pocket’s dough and meat and cheese fillings are chewy and will stick to your braces. It will be difficult to remove and may bend or break your wires and brackets.
Another reason why it’s not a good idea is that the fillings inside the pocket are usually quite hot when you bite into it. This can damage your braces and they could eventually fall off.
If you’re looking for a better replacement, try one of these soft, easy-to-eat snacks that are even healthier than hot pockets:
- Cheese sticks
- Yogurt
- Pudding
- Ice cream (without the cone)
How to clean your teeth with braces?
What if you’ve consumed hot pockets before you knew you weren’t supposed to? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. Just follow these simple steps and your teeth will be clean in no time:
Brush after every meal
Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and toothpaste that does not have abrasives to gently brush all surfaces of your teeth. Brush in a circular pattern and be sure to get the gum line.
Spend an extra minute
If you feel like there are stubborn hot pockets left, it is imperative to spend an extra minute or two brushing your teeth when you have braces. This could give you the feeling of fresher and cleaner teeth.
Use dental floss
Flossing will help remove hot pocket particles from in between your teeth and in areas that are difficult to reach with a toothbrush. Use dental floss holders if you have trouble using regular floss.
Pay special attention to where your gum line meets your teeth as this is where plaque and bacteria love to hide.
Use mouthwash
Even after brushing and flossing, mouthwash can help get rid of bacteria that cause tooth decay, and gum disease.
Clean out your tongue
Your tongue can also harbor bacteria and other hot pocket excesses that can cause bad breath. Gently brush your tongue with your toothbrush or use a tongue scraper to remove the bacteria.
Go to your orthodontist frequently
Visit your orthodontist frequently so they can check if your braces are still in good condition and they can also give you tips on how to better take care of your teeth.
Be sure to brush and floss regularly, and visit your orthodontist frequently to maintain healthy teeth and gums.
Conclusion
Hot pockets may be tempting, but it is best to avoid them while you have braces. You may wait until your wires are off or you can choose softer snacks instead. However, if you ate one or two of them, be sure to brush and floss thoroughly afterward. Do not forget to visit your dentist or orthodontist now and then to maintain your healthy smile.
