If you or your loved ones plan to indulge in the sweets this year on Valentine’s Day, remember to take the correct preventative measures in keeping your mouth and teeth safe from harm. At Petrous Orthodontics in Madison Heights, MI, Dr. Jerek Petrous has the tools you need to get through the holiday and the days that follow safely and efficiently.

Many treats can cause destruction for children who have braces, clear aligners or other orthodontic appliances. Certain treats can be the cause toward potential damage that can delay orthodontic treatment. Learn about what treats you can eat and what you should avoid to protect your teeth and gums, and what you can do to obtain the best oral health.

5 safety tips for a healthy looking mouth:

1. Avoid those hard sticky or chewy candies: You’ll find that these candies will stick to your mouth, making it more difficult for you to fully clean your teeth properly.
2. If you are going to eat candy, stick to the melt-in-your-mouth chocolates: These tasty treats are just as enjoyable as any, and they are safer toward your overall oral health.
3. Clean your teeth after every meal: If it isn't possible to brush your teeth right away, rinse your mouth with a glass of water to rid your mouth of any leftover food and sugar.
4. Remember to keep a healthy routine to maintain a clean looking mouth: Brush your teeth twice a day and floss daily in order to keep the development of your teeth and mouth bright and strong.
5. Stay away from sugary drinks, such as soda: Stick to healthier drinks such as water, milk, and tea. Drinks that contain sugar tend to contribute to the discoloration of your teeth, destroying tooth enamel and its protective outer layer.

Brace the ones you love! If you are new to the game of braces and orthodontia, you may be tempted by the candies that were once so easy for you to eat. However, on this Valentine’s Day, you have to be weary of what can do more harm than good to your mouth. Eating hard and sticky candies such as Jolly Ranchers, lollipops, gum drops, popcorn, and caramel may not be as simple as it used to be. Consumption of these foods are no good for your dental care, and can be very difficult to clean off of teeth.

What Can Braces Fix?

• Overcrowding of teeth
• Our bite: Overbite and underbite
• Teeth alignment: Filling in any gaps between our teeth
• Jaw misalignment

There are several problems that braces can help fix. By seven years old, a child’s mouth is usually developed enough to recognize any of these potential dental issues. If you or your child are suffering from any orthodontic problems, don’t panic. Visit us here at Petrous Orthodontics in Madison Heights, MI. We're devoted to providing you with the proper dental care you need in finding that perfect smile. Please contact us at 732-442-7300 to set an appointment with Dr. Jerek Petrous and our highly trained dental experts.