March Madness: Brackets & Braces
March 14th, 2025
March Madness is here, and game time is a blast for the whole family—even if your little one is sporting braces! At Huntington Smiles Pediatric Dentistry, we know that choosing the right snacks can keep your child’s braces safe while still fueling their excitement for the big game.
Braces-Friendly Snacks
Kids with braces need snacks that won’t damage their brackets or wires. Research from the American Association of Orthodontists shows that hard, sticky, or crunchy foods (like popcorn and hard candies) can harm braces by causing broken brackets or loose wires . Instead, try these braces-friendly options:
- Soft Pretzels: Their soft texture makes them gentle on braces while still offering that satisfying crunch.
- Cheese Cubes: Cheese is not only easy to chew but also provides calcium, which is great for building strong teeth .
- Yogurt Parfaits: Smooth and creamy, layered with soft fruits like bananas or berries, these are both nutritious and braces-safe.
- Smoothies: A blend of fruits, yogurt, and a splash of honey makes for a refreshing, easy-to-drink treat that won’t stick to braces.
- Soft-Cooked Vegetables: Steamed or roasted veggies like carrots or squash are tasty, easy to bite, and won’t damage orthodontic work.
Snacks for Kids Without Braces
If your child isn’t wearing braces, they still deserve fun, game-time snacks. However, it’s important to keep their choices healthy to support their dental health. Consider these ideas:
- Popcorn: A classic, crunchy snack perfect for the excitement of March Madness.
- Nuts and Trail Mix: A mix of nuts, dried fruits, and a few dark chocolate bits can be both energizing and satisfying.
- Fresh Fruits: Apple slices, grapes, and berries are refreshing and help clean the teeth as they’re eaten.
- Veggie Chips: A crunchy alternative that comes in many flavors and is lower in unhealthy fats than regular chips.
Preparing Snacks: Tips for Every Kid
- For Braces-Wearers: Cut foods into small, bite-sized pieces to minimize the risk of any damage to brackets or wires. Always supervise your child during snack time to ensure safe eating.
- For All Kids: Choose snacks that are low in sugar and rich in nutrients. Drinking water during and after snacks helps rinse away food particles and keeps the mouth fresh.
By making smart snack choices during March Madness, you can help protect your child’s braces and overall dental health while keeping the energy high for every game. A little planning goes a long way—whether your child is in braces or not, healthy snacks help keep those smiles bright and strong!