The haunting hours of Halloween can mean big trouble for little trick-or-treaters. The American Association of Orthodontists reminds patients to follow special guidelines for keeping themselves safe.

If its sticky, chewy, hard or crunchy, its a food that anyone wearing braces or retainers should avoid. said Dr. James EGjerset, president of the AAO.

October is National Orthodontic Health Month and orthodontists urge patients to steer clear of caramel, bubble gum and taffy. AAO members also advise those in treatment to beware of unpopped kernels of popcorn, peanuts and taco chips. And braces or not, no one should ever chew ice.

Orthodontist frequently remind patients that consuming off limit foods could lengthen their treatment time. Sneaking food that could harm your braces may affect treatment, just as if you werent tending to oral hygiene or wearing your rubber bands, noted Dr. Gjerset.

For patients wearing a retainer, remember to remove it before indulging - especially before bobbing for apples at the Halloween party. (And dont wrap it in a napikin. Retainers wind up in the trash more often than you think.) Once removed from the mouth, orthodontist advise patients to place retainers in their cases for safekeeping.

Well, what if a patient chooses to chew the wrong treat and damages the braces? Contact your orthodontist so that arrangements can be made to correct the problem. Usually small problems can be solves over the phone. Loose or protruding brackets or wires can be held in place with orthodontic wax until the patient can come into the office, Dr. Gjerset said.

Of course, Halloween does not have to be completely treatless. Plain chocolate candy is OK, provided you remember to brush and floss afterwards.

We want patients to have fun while in treatment, said Dr. Gjerset. Cooperation is always key, and exercising caution at Halloween could keep patients on tract to great results!

In addition to orthodontic safety, AAO members advise parents and children to follow trick-or-treat safety guidelines. Young children should always be accompanied by an adult; carry a flashlight; wear a light-colored or reflective costume; choose face paint over masks for young ghosts and goblins; and have an adult inspect all treats before children dig in.

For more information about orthodontics, call Br Robert E. Blake at 770-461-9931 or call 1-800-straight.

Halloween checklist for those wearing braces or retainers:

Avoid sticky, chewy, hard or crunchy.

Braces or not, dont chew ice.

Remove your retainer before indulging.

Plain chocolate candy is okay but dont forget to brush & floss afterwards.

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