Halloween and Braces

On Halloween night, most parents know what to look for when checking their child's trick-or-treat candy for safety. But, what about children with braces? Do you you know what kinds of candy your children should avoid to keep from damaging their braces this Halloween? Here are some Halloween tips from the American Association of Orthodontists:

• "If it's sticky, chewy, hard or crunchy, it's a food that anyone wearing braces or retainers should avoid," says Dr. James J. Caveney, president of the AAO.
• Some items to avoid: Caramel, Bubblegum, Taffy, Popcorn (including unpopped kernels), Peanuts, Hard pretzels, Taco chips, Ice
• Bobbing for apples is not recommended for braces
• Plain chocolate candy is OK, provided you remember to brush and floss afterwards.
• A good treat that won't cause damage is thinly sliced apples, dipped in yogurt dip or creamy chocolate sauce.

Here's a link to a site where you can find all the tips and other helpful information about braces and Halloween: http://www.braces.org/nohm/

The site also has Braces-Safe Halloween Recipes that are sure to keep big smiles on trick-or-treaters with braces. The disgustingly yummy treats include recipes for Creepy Cake, Goofy Brains and Spider Webs!