Summer picnics are a great way to enjoy the outdoors with family and friends. But as you pack snacks for your picnic, be mindful of your orthodontic treatment. The orthodontics specialists at John S Walker D.M.D are here with some summer picnic snacks to avoid to ensure your orthodontic treatment stays on track. Reach out to our orthodontics team with any questions!
Top 6 Summer Picnic Snacks To Avoid
Top 6 Summer Picnic Snacks To Avoid
Soda
Soda is a popular beverage choice during picnics, but it's safer to steer clear of it when you have orthodontic appliances. That’s because the high sugar content and acidity can erode tooth enamel and increase the risk of cavities, especially when you have braces or aligners. Opt for water or sugar-free alternatives to keep your teeth and braces in optimal condition during your summer picnic.
Beef Jerky
Beef jerky can be a protein-packed snack that many enjoy on outdoor excursions, but the tough and chewy texture of beef jerky can be challenging to bite and chew with braces. Moreover, small pieces of beef jerky can easily get stuck in your braces, leading to discomfort and hygiene issues. Choose softer alternatives like cheese sticks or yogurt for a satisfying and orthodontic-safe snack option.
Corn on the Cob
Corn on the cob is a classic summer delight enjoyed by many during picnics and barbecues. But biting into corn on the cob can exert significant pressure on your braces, potentially leading to brackets bending or wires shifting. In addition, the fibrous nature of corn kernels can easily get lodged between your teeth and orthodontic hardware, making it challenging to clean thoroughly and increasing the risk of plaque buildup and tooth decay.
Ice
As tempting as munching on ice cubes to stay cool can be, it can be detrimental to your orthodontic treatment. Chewing on ice can put unnecessary pressure on your braces, leading to brackets breaking or bending. Stick to chilled drinks or cold snacks like yogurt instead!
Popcorn
Popcorn is another snack to steer clear of during your summer picnic. The kernels can easily get lodged between your teeth and braces, causing discomfort and increasing the risk of cavities. Opt for softer snacks like fruit slices instead.
Hard Candy
The hard and unyielding texture of hard candies poses a significant risk to braces and aligners, as chewing on them can exert excessive pressure on dental hardware, leading to brackets loosening or wires bending. Moreover, prolonged exposure to sugary hard candies can increase the risk of cavities and enamel erosion.
Prioritize Your Orthodontic Treatment During Summer Picnics
As you prepare for your summer picnic, keep in mind the snacks to avoid to protect your orthodontic treatment. Remember, if you have any concerns about your orthodontic treatment, consult with your family orthodontics specialist like John S Walker D.M.D. for guidance and support. Prioritize your dental health this summer for a confident, healthy smile in the future. If you’re ready to start your orthodontics journey, reach out to us for an initial evaluation!