Having braces doesn’t mean you have to give up all of your favorite treats. There are foods you should avoid and some that can be enjoyed with a little modification. So a social debate is on about one of the favorite sweets ever made – can you eat Tootsie Rolls with braces?
Can you eat tootsie rolls with braces?
No, you should not! Tootsie rolls along with other sticky, chewy candy are big no-nos when you have braces. The sticky nature of these sweets can easily get caught in your braces and be difficult to remove. Moreover, eating sticky candy can pull off brackets and loosen wires. So it’s best to avoid them altogether.
If you must have a sweet fix, opt for soft candy that dissolves quickly like jellybeans or chocolate. These are less likely to cause damage and are easier to remove if they do get stuck.
Nevertheless, make sure you eat in moderation and brush your teeth after indulging in any type of candy to avoid cavities.
How to clean your teeth with braces?
If you still have your braces when the holiday rolls around, don’t worry too much! Here are a few tips on how you can clean your teeth with braces:
Brush your teeth immediately after every meal
Use fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush when you brush your teeth for at least 2 minutes or so. More specifically, taking immediate action after eating your Tootsie roll will help to prevent plaque buildup.
Floss your teeth at least once a day
Use floss threaders to help you floss correctly with braces. Be sure to clean under the wire as well as around the bracket. Eating Tootsie rolls will surely leave excess somewhere in between so it’s important to floss correctly and regularly.
Rinse your mouth with a fluoride mouthwash
Rinsing can remove tootsie roll particles that brushing and flossing may have missed. It will prevent plaque buildup and tooth decay. Choose a fluoride mouthwash that has the ADA Seal of Acceptance. Swish the mouthwash around your mouth for at least 30 seconds before you spit it out.
Check for alternatives
If you’re craving something sweet, there are alternatives other than Tootsie rolls. For instance, you can have some yogurt or eat fruits like grapes, melons, and oranges. These are all great and healthy snacks that won’t put your dents at risk.
Visit your orthodontist regularly
Even with the best oral hygiene habits, you still need to visit your orthodontist for regular check-ups and cleanings. Your orthodontist will also be able to spot any potential problems and give you the best advice on how to take care of your teeth while you have braces.
Conclusion
So the answer to the question – can you eat Tootsie Rolls with braces – is a resounding no. Sticky, chewy candy can easily get stuck in your braces and be difficult to remove. There’s a big possibility that you end up loosening or bending your wires. If you must have a sweet fix, opt for soft candy that dissolves quickly like jellybeans or chocolate but if you can’t resist the temptation, try some of the alternatives we’ve listed above. Most importantly, take care of your teeth by brushing, flossing, and rinsing regularly. Don’t forget to visit your orthodontist for regular check-ups as well!
