Here’s how to stay on the nice list (and avoid any unwanted orthodontic surprises!).

Day 1: Don’t forget the essentials

If you’re heading away over Christmas, make sure you’ve packed everything you need – toothbrush, fluoride toothpaste, floss, orthodontic wax, pain relief (if you’ve recently started treatment), and your retainer or aligner case.

Day 2: Watch out for sticky sweets

Toffee, fudge and chewy caramels might be festive favourites, but they’re also known for bending wires and breaking brackets. Best to steer clear!

Day 3: Say yes to soft treats

You don’t need to miss out on the good stuff. Quality Street, Christmas pudding, cheese and flaky mince pies are all safe options for brace-wearers.

Day 4: Cut food into smaller pieces

Roast potatoes and parsnips can be tough on brackets. Cutting things up into bite-sized pieces helps you avoid unnecessary pressure.

Day 5: Avoid chewing on pen lids, nails or Sellotape

Tempting as it is during wrapping marathons, chewing on anything that isn’t food can damage your brackets or aligners.

Day 6: Keep wearing your elastics

If you’ve been asked to wear elastics, staying consistent over Christmas really does make a difference. Keeping up with your routine will help your treatment stay on track.

Day 7: Stay hydrated

With all the festive snacks and drinks around, drinking plenty of water helps wash away sugar and reduce the risk of plaque build-up.

Day 8: Clean your aligners regularly

If you’re wearing Invisalign or Angel Aligners, clean them thoroughly at least once a day – and always rinse them before putting them back in after eating or drinking.

Day 9: Keep lip balm nearby

Cold weather and braces can both cause dry lips. A moisturising balm can help – especially in chilly December weather (and under the mistletoe!).

Day 10: Don’t wrap your aligners in a napkin

It’s the easiest way to lose them. Always store your aligners or retainers in their case – even if you’re just taking them out for a quick festive snack.

Day 11: Smile with confidence

Braces? Aligners? No problem. Smile big – you’re on an amazing journey, and there’s nothing better than a confident smile.

Day 12: Give your smile a good clean before bed

After a day of festive food and fun, take a little extra time brushing and flossing before you sleep. It’s an easy way to keep your smile healthy over the Christmas break.

From all of us at Splash Orthodontics, we wish you a wonderful Christmas and New Year, filled with smiles.