For adults with braces, holiday social functions with munchies and appetizers can be tricky to navigate. Most resign themselves to saying "I'll pass" to the spinach dip for fear of it getting lodged in their teeth for the whole evening!
This holiday season, the authors of "The Braces Cookbook 2: Comfort food with a Gourmet Touch" are offering seven tips to help ensure a carefree smile for those with braces at any holiday gathering:
-Go for the cauliflower in the veggie tray. It's softer than brocolli and won't show up as much on braces if tidbits go astray.
-Try potato chips and pita bread as less crunchy alternatives to tortilla chips and hard crackers.
-In general, think "white" when you choose food. It's okay for once to skip the healthier greens.
-Take extra-small bites and nibble food from the side of your mouth. Strong molars can usually handle tougher work, and your front teeth will still gleam.
-If you're contributing baked goods, include a slice of fresh bread along with them in a tightly lidded container - the moisture will transfer to cookies and bars, softening them up; this even works a bit on store baked goods.
-Carry a tiny spiral self-covered brush in a pocket or purse. This item is a lifesaver for freeing stuck bits from between brackets during a quick trip to the restroom.
