The holiday season is a time of joy, gratitude, and gatherings with loved ones. But for those who have an orthodontic treatment involving brackets and wires, navigating the Thanksgiving feast can be a bit challenging, thanks to food restrictions.
We all know the tantalizing aroma of a Thanksgiving turkey, but can you eat it with braces? Fear not, we have some delectable solutions for a braces-friendly Thanksgiving meal. So, put on your festive spirit, and let’s explore how to enjoy Thanksgiving without risking your orthodontic work.
Can You Eat Turkey With Braces?
Absolutely, Turkey is safe to eat! As a Thanksgiving staple, you can savor it with braces. Just be mindful to slice it into manageable pieces to avoid straining your braces. Remember, it’s all about making the meal fit your needs, so cutting your meat into smaller pieces will make it easier to eat and protect your teeth and gums.
7 Thanksgiving-Style Dishes for Braces-Friendly Feasting
There are still plenty of soft foods to eat with braces during this holiday. While certain vegetables and starches, like corn on the cob or raw carrots, might be too difficult to consume, there many other delectable options you can choose from. We’ve listed a few below:
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Turkey: As mentioned above, turkey is braces-friendly, just be gentle when biting into it. Alternatives to this bird, like chicken or honey-baked ham, are also safe options to eat.
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Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and soft, mashed potatoes are a perfect side dish for braces wearers.
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Cranberry Sauce: This sweet and tangy sauce is easy on the braces and adds a delightful contrast to your meal.
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Pumpkin Pie: Satisfy your sweet tooth with a slice of pumpkin pie. Its soft texture won’t harm your braces.
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Gravy: Pour some extra gravy over your turkey and mashed potatoes for added flavor, and it’s braces-safe too.
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Green Beans: Steamed green beans provide a healthy and crisp option without causing any orthodontic problems. Most cooked vegetables can be consumed as long as they’re cut into small pieces or soft enough that you don’t have to do a lot of chewing.
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Sweet Potatoes: Whether roasted or mashed, sweet potatoes are both tasty and braces-friendly.
If you don’t see the Thanksgiving food you’re planning to eat, that’s okay. It might still be possible for you can eat your favorite entree, side, or dessert as planned. The key is to make sure you’re eating food that is soft and can be cut into smaller pieces.
Don’t Forget Oral Health Care After Meals
After indulging in these braces-friendly Thanksgiving dishes, remember to pay extra attention to your oral hygiene. Brush and floss thoroughly to remove any food particles that might get stuck in your braces. Maintaining good oral hygiene is crucial during this time, so you can continue to enjoy your holiday season with a bright smile.
Get Ready for a Perfect Smile Over the Holidays
This holiday season, why not give your family the gift of a beautiful smile? Schedule a consultation for braces during the Thanksgiving and Winter breaks and make the most out of your time off. A straight and healthy smile is the gift that keeps on giving.
