12/05/2025
There is something special about the holidays here in Western New York, cozy nights indoors, warm drinks in hand, and family time that feels just as bright as the lights across town. And for anyone in braces, staying comfortable during the celebrations makes the season even better. That’s why Dingus Orthodontics found a fun 12 Days of Braces guide filled with easy, enjoyable holiday orthodontic tips for families throughout our community.
Let’s count down together!
♫Day 1: A Little Wax for Comfort
A tiny bit of orthodontic wax can make a big difference.
If a wire or bracket starts to feel uncomfortable during holiday festivities, adding wax helps keep smiles happy through school recitals, family photos, and community gatherings.
♫Day 2: Two Helpful Tools
holiday orthodontic tips, a person flossing their teeth
Floss threaders + interdental brushes.
These small tools help keep teeth clean around brackets — especially helpful during a month filled with festive meals and neighborhood celebrations.
♫Day 3: Three Festive Braces Colors
Braces can be part of the fun this season with simple, cheerful color options like:
Red + Green
Light Blue + Dark Blue
Gold + White
Or, if your child prefers one color, classic choices like blue, red, teal, or silver always look great for the holidays.
♫Day 4: Elastics Matter — Even on Break
Wearing elastics exactly as instructed helps your smile progress smoothly. Here are four reasons they matter — even during holiday break:
They guide your bite into the proper position
They help your treatment move faster
They keep progress steady between appointments
Skipping them can delay results.
♫Day 5: Five Golden Tips
Simple holiday orthodontic tips to keep the season comfortable:
Brush after meals
Avoid sticky sweets
Keep extra elastics handy
Use wax when needed
Rinse with water after treats.
♫Day 6: Six Aligner Essentials
For patients using clear aligners, pack these six items before traveling:
Current aligner tray
Next tray
Previous tray (as backup)
Aligner case
Cleaning crystals
Travel toothbrush
Perfect for keeping aligners safe during holiday trips.
♫Day 7: Seven Smile Selfies
Year-end photos are a terrific way to capture progress.
Whether it is a group picture at a holiday event or a cozy family snapshot at home, these memories make the journey even more meaningful.
♫Day 8: Braces-Friendly Holiday Treats
holiday orthodontic tips, A cup of hot chocolate with marshmallows and cookies
Western New York winters are full of cozy moments — and whether it’s a child, teen, or adult in your family with braces, there are plenty of soft holiday treats everyone can enjoy safely. Some seasonal favorites include:
Soft scones with honey butter
Hot chocolate with whipped cream
Soft gingerbread loaf
Warm brownies (no nuts)
Soft frosted sugar cookies
Baked cinnamon apples
Chocolate mousse or pudding cups
French toast or crepes
Buttermilk pancakes
These gentle, comforting treats make it easy for braces-wearers of any age to enjoy the flavors of the season — without any bracket worries. But remember, after these delicious sweet treats, always brush your teeth and rinse your mouth out to ensure that your teeth stay nice and healthy.
♫Day 9: Nine Holiday Smile Moments You Might Notice This Season
The holidays are full of little joys that make the season feel special. Here are a few your family might recognize…
Decorations going up around town
Laughing during holiday movies
Opening gifts with excitement
Cozy winter photos together
Seeing friends you haven’t seen in a while
A welcome break from school
Traditions that bring everyone together
Holiday music in every shop and event
Hopefulness for the year ahead.
♫Day 10: Ten Travel Must-Haves
If your family is traveling, pack a small orthodontic kit with:
Floss
Toothbrush
Toothpaste
Orthodontic wax
Extra elastics
A small mirror
Hand sanitizer
Mouthwash
Aligner case (if needed)
Water bottle
Simple, easy, and perfect for trips near or far.
♫Day 11: Eleven Braces Colors Matching Outfits
holiday orthodontic tips, a family posing for a Christmas photo wearing Christmas sweaters
From winter sweaters to sparkly holiday dresses to flannels and cozy holiday pajamas, braces can add a fun pop of color. Teens love choosing elastic colors that match their holiday style.
♫Day 12: Twelve Months Closer to Your New Smile
As the year wraps up, it is a great time to celebrate the progress you have made.
Every appointment, every elastic worn, and every bit of effort has brought your child closer to the confident smile they are working toward.
We hope these holiday orthodontic tips bring ease, cheer, and a little festive sparkle to every smile. From all of us at Dingus Orthodontics, we wish you a joyful holiday and a bright year ahead.
