There’s no shortage of delicious candy to choose from during Easter. Whether you have a soft spot for jelly beans or chocolate eggs, there’s something sweet for everyone to enjoy. Unfortunately, if you have braces, you’ll want to avoid some treats to prevent needing a premature appointment with your orthodontist. Here are a few to keep in mind.

What Kinds of Easter Candy Will Impact Braces?

1. Hard Candies

Hard candies like jawbreakers and other classic treats can be tempting, but they’re not the best for an individual with braces. They can force the dental appliance loose, break the brackets, or bend the wires. Furthermore, the ingredients in these treats can cause cavities and lead to gum disease. Lollipops should be safe to eat as long as you don’t bite on them, but you should still limit consumption due to their sugar content.

2. Sticky Candies

Sticky and chewy candies like jelly beans and gummies are popular Easter treats. Nonetheless, they significantly affect braces. 

Caramel, for example, can easily get stuck in the wires and brackets. Not only will it be difficult to remove, but it can also damage the dental appliance. As a result, you’ll need to schedule a visit to your orthodontist to clean and inspect them. Avoid this problem by opting for less sticky candy, like a chocolate egg.

3. Licorice

Although it’s more of an old-fashioned option, licorice is another Easter favorite. However, it’s likely to stick to the wires and brackets of your braces due to its chewiness. Cleaning it out can be a laborious and uncomfortable task, so look for softer, less sticky options like nut-free chocolate, peanut butter cups, and cookies.

Besides avoiding these treats, you can protect your braces with help from Lamont Jacobs Orthodontics in Fairfield, OH. The experienced orthodontists at this family-owned practice offer a range of solutions to ensure a perfect smile, including traditional braces and Invisalign for patients of all ages. Call (513) 829-7045 to get started on a personalized treatment plan, or visit their website to learn more about their offerings.