Christmas Survival Guide for Braces & Clear Aligners
Festive Tips from Fresh Smiles Orthodontics
Christmas is all about good food, good company, and a well-earned break — but if you have braces or clear aligners, the holidays can also bring a few extra challenges. With the Christmas and New Year period often meaning travel, social events, and changes to routine, a little planning goes a long way in keeping your orthodontic treatment on track.
At Fresh Smiles Orthodontics, we want you to enjoy the festive season without unwanted orthodontic surprises. Here’s our easy, stress-free guide to managing braces and aligners over the holidays.
Holiday Tips for Braces
- Choose festive foods wisely
We know it’s tempting, but some Christmas treats are not brace-friendly. Try to avoid:
- Hard foods like nuts, ice, and candy canes
- Sticky or chewy lollies, caramels, and toffees
- Crunchy foods bitten into directly (think apples or crusty bread)
Tip: Cut food into smaller pieces and chew gently to reduce the risk of broken brackets or wires.
- Travel-ready braces emergency kit
Whether you’re heading away or out all day, pack:
- Orthodontic wax
- Interdental brushes
- A small mirror
- Any recommended pain relief
A little wax can make a big difference if something starts rubbing at the worst possible time (usually mid-Christmas lunch).
- Don’t let oral hygiene slip
Late nights and busy days happen — just don’t let plaque join the party.
- Brush thoroughly morning and night
- Use interdental brushes daily
- Rinse with water if brushing straight after meals isn’t possible
Healthy teeth and gums help ensure your braces treatment stays on schedule.
Holiday Tips for Clear Aligners
- Keep up your aligner wear time
Aligners should be worn 20–22 hours per day, even during celebrations. Long meals and social events can add up quickly, so try setting phone reminders if needed. - Always use your aligner case
Wrapping aligners in a napkin is the number one reason they get thrown away at Christmas. If they’re out of your mouth, they belong in their case — every time. - Clean aligners daily
Sugary drinks and long days out can lead to staining and odour.
- Rinse aligners regularly
- Clean them daily with approved aligner cleaners
- Avoid hot water (it can warp them)
- Travelling? Pack ahead
If you’re due to change aligners while away, bring your next sets with you so your clear aligner treatment doesn’t miss a beat.
Managing Minor Orthodontic Issues Over Christmas
While our practice may be closed for part of the holiday period, many common issues can be managed at home:
- Sore teeth: Normal after adjustments or new aligners — usually settles within a few days
- Loose bracket: Leave it in place if possible and use wax for comfort
- Poking wire: Apply wax and avoid cutting unless previously advised
If something feels urgent or painful, follow the Fresh Smiles Orthodontics emergency contact instructions provided to you.
Plan Ahead Before the Holiday Break
Before Christmas arrives:
- Attend scheduled orthodontic appointments
- Stock up on elastics, aligners, or supplies
- Ask our team any questions about managing braces or aligners while away
A few minutes of preparation now can save a lot of stress later.
Enjoy the Festive Season — We’ve Got Your Smile Covered
Orthodontic treatment doesn’t take a holiday, but with the right habits, it doesn’t have to get in the way of your celebrations either. Follow these simple tips and you’ll head into the new year with your smile progress right on track.
From all of us at Fresh Smiles Orthodontics, we wish you a joyful, safe, and smile-filled Christmas and New Year. We can’t wait to see you in the new year.
Warm festive wishes,
The Fresh Smiles Orthodontics Team