Use pre-tax FSA funds for braces, Invisalign®, records, or retainers. Puntillo & Crane Orthodontics shows exactly how to apply benefits before they expire.

Cozy, braces-safe recipes and tips to help you enjoy the holiday without damaging your smile. Table of Contents Introduction A Season for Gratitude and Grins Meet the Doctors Thanksgiving with Braces: Comfort Meets Care Foods to Avoid During the Feast Braces-Friendly Dishes You'll Be Thankful For Our Top 5 Braces-Safe Thanksgiving Picks Creative Dessert Ideas for Braces Wearers Pro Tips for a Smooth Thanksgiving with Braces Why Choose Puntillo & Crane Orthodontics Conclusion Frequently Asked Questions Introduction Thanksgiving is a season for gratitude, family gatherings, and, of course, delicious food. But if you or your child are wearing braces or aligners this holiday season, navigating the feast can feel tricky. Don't worry, our team at Puntillo & Crane Orthodontics has you covered with smart, braces-friendly food ideas and expert tips to help you enjoy every bite safely. With Dr. Anthony Puntillo , Dr. Christopher Crane , and Dr. Carolyn Gardiner leading the way, our four offices across Crown Point, Merrillville, Schererville, and Valparaiso have helped families smile brighter for over 30 years. We specialize in braces and Invisalign® , bringing comfort, confidence, and joy to every smile we serve. A Season for Gratitude and Grins Thanksgiving isn't just about the feast. It's about slowing down, reflecting on what matters, and sharing smiles with the people you love most. Between the laughter, stories, and pumpkin pie, our team wants to make sure your smile stays healthy and your braces stay safe all season long. Whether you're preparing a family meal or enjoying dinner as a guest, a few smart choices can help you savor every flavor without any orthodontic setbacks. Meet the Doctors At Puntillo & Crane Orthodontics, we take pride in combining advanced orthodontic care with genuine, family-centered service. Dr. Anthony Puntillo brings decades of expertise and a passion for creating confident, beautiful smiles. Dr. Christopher Crane believes that every patient's journey is unique and takes the time to personalize each treatment accordingly. Dr. Carolyn Gardiner adds warmth, precision, and care to every smile she helps shape. Together, Puntillo and Crane Orthodontics has built a reputation across Northwest Indiana for orthodontic excellence, innovation, and a practice that truly feels like home. Thanksgiving with Braces: Comfort Meets Care When you're wearing braces or aligners, Thanksgiving doesn't have to mean missing out on the holiday. The key is to focus on soft, easy-to-chew foods and avoid anything too sticky, crunchy, or hard that could damage wires or brackets. Here's a good rule of thumb: If it's soft enough to cut with a fork, it's safe to enjoy with braces. From creamy casseroles to buttery mashed potatoes, there's no shortage of braces-safe comfort food this time of year. The best part? You can still fill your plate with festive favorites, just with a little extra mindfulness. Foods to Avoid During the Feast To keep your smile safe, steer clear of these common Thanksgiving culprits: Candied nuts or nut brittle: Too hard and sticky for brackets. Crunchy raw veggies: Swap for cooked or steamed versions. Caramel or pecan pie: Sticky fillings can damage braces or aligners. Hard bread crusts or rolls: Choose soft, buttered rolls instead. Corn on the cob: Cut it off before digging in. Sticky stuffing or chewy meats: Overly dense foods can pull on brackets, causing discomfort. Keeping these off your plate will help prevent emergency visits and keep your orthodontic journey on track. Braces-Friendly Dishes You'll Be Thankful For Thanksgiving is full of flavor, and there's no reason your braces or aligners should hold you back from enjoying the feast. The trick is to choose foods that are soft, easy to chew, and kind to your brackets and wires. Fortunately, the holiday table is filled with plenty of options that are both delicious and braces-approved. Here are some note-worthy and braces-friendly options. Mashed potatoes and gravy – The ultimate comfort food. Smooth, creamy mashed potatoes with a drizzle of gravy are gentle on your braces and satisfying for your taste buds. Add a touch of butter, garlic, or herbs for an extra burst of flavor. This classic side dish is a staple for a reason, and one of the safest options for every orthodontic patient. Turkey (cut into small bites) – Tender, juicy turkey is a holiday essential, and it's perfectly fine to enjoy with braces. Make sure it's soft and cut into small, bite-sized pieces. Stick to the lean, moist sections and avoid the crispy skin, which can be a bit tough on brackets. If you're wearing aligners, remove them before eating and rinse before putting them back in. Soft stuffing – A Thanksgiving favorite that can easily be braces-friendly. Ensure your stuffing is baked or cooked until tender, and refrain from adding crunchy mix-ins like nuts, croutons, or crispy onions. When made with broth, herbs, and tender bread cubes, it's a flavorful and perfectly safe option for your Thanksgiving feast. Green bean casserole – Vegetables are a must, and this dish checks every box for comfort and safety. The beans are soft and easy to chew, while the creamy mushroom sauce adds a rich, savory layer. Just skip any crispy fried toppings if they're on the harder side as they can break brackets and cause irritation. Macaroni and cheese – Warm, cheesy, and melt-in-your-mouth soft. Mac and cheese is one of the best braces-friendly Thanksgiving sides because it's satisfying without being tough or crunchy. It's also a great source of calcium, which supports strong teeth while you're in orthodontic treatment. Pumpkin or sweet potato casserole – These creamy, seasonal dishes are smooth and flavorful, with just the right touch of sweetness. When topped with marshmallows or a light crumble (without nuts), they're an indulgent yet orthodontist-approved choice. Soft, spiced, and easy to enjoy, they capture the essence of Thanksgiving comfort while keeping your smile safe. All of these dishes strike the perfect balance between holiday warmth and orthodontic care . Each one is gentle on brackets and aligners while still delivering the cozy flavors you look forward to every year. Fill your plate with these soft, smile-friendly favorites and savor the holiday with confidence. Our Top 5 Braces-Safe Thanksgiving Picks If you're looking for the easiest, most delicious braces-friendly foods to enjoy this holiday, here are our top recommendations: Creamy Mashed Potatoes – The ultimate Thanksgiving comfort food that's smooth, filling, and safe for every smile. Soft Turkey with Gravy – Flavorful and protein-rich, slice it thin and chew carefully. Macaroni & Cheese – No crunch, all comfort. This one's always a win. Sweet Potato Casserole – Add marshmallows, skip the nuts, and you're good to go. Pumpkin Pie – Soft, sweet, and perfectly safe without a hard crust edge. Pro Tip: If you're wearing aligners, remove them before eating and rinse your mouth or brush before putting them back in. Creative Dessert Ideas for Braces Wearers Who says dessert has to be complicated? You can still enjoy something sweet without the risk of sticky or crunchy textures. Try these smile-safe treats: Pumpkin mousse or pudding cups Baked apples with cinnamon and honey Soft cheesecake or custard Crustless pumpkin pie Warm banana bread slices These soft, melt-in-your-mouth desserts let you finish your meal with a sweet note. No stress, no bracket breakage. Pro Tips for a Smooth Thanksgiving with Braces To keep your smile in top shape through the holidays, keep these practical tips in mind: Rinse or brush after every meal – Keeps food from getting stuck in brackets or aligners. Pack a travel toothbrush and floss picks if you're dining away from home. Stick to soft textures – Avoid biting into hard rolls or chewy meats. Stay hydrated – Water helps rinse away food and keeps your mouth fresh. Bring your aligner case – Never wrap aligners in a napkin (they'll disappear fast!). A few minutes of care can make your Thanksgiving stress-free and keep your orthodontic treatment right on track. Why Choose Puntillo & Crane Orthodontics At Puntillo & Crane Orthodontics , we're more than just a place to straighten teeth. We're a family that's been serving our community for over 30 years. With locations in Crown Point, Merrillville, Schererville, and Valparaiso , our experienced doctors and friendly team help patients of all ages achieve smiles that are both healthy and confident. We specialize in braces and Invisalign® , utilizing advanced technology and personalized care to ensure every treatment plan aligns with your goals and lifestyle. Our mission is simple: to build brighter futures, one smile at a time . Conclusion This Thanksgiving, we hope you enjoy every bite, every laugh, and every smile shared around the table. The holiday season is a time for togetherness and gratitude, and with just a little extra planning, you can enjoy your favorite foods without worrying about your braces or aligners. Choosing braces-friendly dishes like soft casseroles, mashed potatoes, and tender turkey not only keeps your smile safe but also lets you fully savor the warmth of the season. Remember, your orthodontic journey is about more than straightening teeth. It's about feeling confident in every moment, from everyday meals to special celebrations. Whether you're attending a big family dinner or hosting a cozy gathering at home, take a few moments to care for your smile. Brush and rinse after your meal, avoid overly sticky or crunchy foods, and keep your aligners in their case between courses. Your future self, and your future smile, will thank you. 📸 Holiday Smile Challenge: We'd love to see how you celebrate! Tag your Thanksgiving plate or holiday grin with #PandCSmiles on social media and share your favorite braces-friendly dish. Your post might inspire someone else to protect their smile while still enjoying the feast. At Puntillo & Crane Orthodontics, we're grateful for every patient who trusts us with their orthodontic care. You're not just part of our practice, you're part of our family. This year, and every year, we're thankful for the opportunity to help our community smile brighter. From our entire team to you and your loved ones—Happy Thanksgiving! May your day be filled with joy, gratitude, and the confidence to smile big and smile often. Frequently Asked Questions Can I eat pumpkin pie with braces? Yes! Pumpkin pie is soft and smooth. Skip the hard crust edge if it's crispy. What Thanksgiving foods should I avoid with braces? Avoid crunchy, sticky, or chewy foods, such as nuts, caramel, raw vegetables, or crusty bread. Can I eat turkey with braces? Absolutely! Just cut it into small, bite-sized pieces and chew slowly. How can I keep my aligners clean during the holidays? Rinse them after each meal, brush gently with lukewarm water, and store them in their case when not in use. What should I do if I break a bracket while traveling? Please call our office. We'll guide you through temporary fixes and schedule a repair for you when you return. How soon after Thanksgiving can I whiten my teeth post-treatment? If your braces have just been removed, wait about two weeks before starting whitening to allow your enamel to rehydrate. Puntillo & Crane Orthodontics Building Brighter Futures, One Smile at a Time 📍 Crown Point | Merrillville | Schererville | Valparaiso 📞 219-267-1922 (Crown Point) | 219-769-7447 (Merrillville) | 219-322-8552 (Schererville) | 219-462-3537 (Valparaiso) 💬 Text: 219-244-2524 🌐 pandcsmiles.com

Protect your braces while still enjoying the fun—our orthodontist-approved candy tips are here! Table of Contents The Sweet Side of Halloween Why Some Candy Can Be a Nightmare for Braces Candy Dos: Safe Treats for Braces and Aligners Candy Don'ts: Sticky, Chewy, and Hard Hazards to Avoid Caring for Your Teeth After Halloween Aligner Patients: Your Own Halloween Cheat Sheet Healthy (and Fun!) Halloween Alternatives Meet Our Doctors Why Choose Puntillo & Crane Orthodontics Conclusion Frequently Asked Questions The Sweet Side of Halloween Halloween is one of the most exciting times of the year with costumes, laughter, and of course, candy. But if you or your child are wearing braces or clear aligners , it's also a time to be a little extra cautious. At Puntillo & Crane Orthodontics, we know how much our patients look forward to trick-or-treating. You've worked hard on your smile, and we want you to enjoy the festivities without damaging your braces or delaying your progress. The good news? You don't have to skip the fun. You need to make smart candy choices! Our team put together this guide to help you navigate Halloween like an orthodontic pro. With a few simple tips and a bit of awareness, you can protect your braces, keep your teeth healthy, and still enjoy plenty of sweets. Why Some Candy Can Be a Nightmare for Braces When it comes to braces, not all candy is created equal. Sticky, chewy, and hard treats can wreak havoc on brackets, wires, and attachments. Even a single bite of the wrong candy can cause a wire to bend or a bracket to pop off, resulting in discomfort and an unexpected trip back to our office. Here's why certain candies are risky: Sticky candies (like caramels or taffy) can cling to brackets and wires, pulling them loose or bending them out of place. Hard candies (like jawbreakers or lollipops) can crack brackets or break wires when bitten. Chewy candies (like gummy bears or licorice) tug on braces and increase the risk of damage. Sour candies often contain acids that weaken enamel, making teeth more susceptible to decay. A damaged bracket or broken wire doesn't just inconvenience you, it can also extend your treatment time. With a little guidance, you can easily steer clear of the troublemakers and still enjoy Halloween safely. Candy Dos: Safe Treats for Braces and Aligners You might be surprised by how many Halloween candies are actually orthodontist-approved! The key is to look for treats that are soft, melt-in-your-mouth, and non-sticky. Here's a list of "yes" candies our team gives the green light to: Braces-Friendly Candy Options Chocolate Bars (without nuts or caramel): Plain Hershey's, Kit Kats, or milk chocolate squares are smooth and safe to eat. Peanut Butter Cups: Soft, creamy, and delicious, These are a team favorite. Soft Cookies or Brownies: Not technically candy, but still a sweet way to celebrate! Chocolate-Covered Marshmallows: Gentle on braces and a fun seasonal treat. Peppermint Patties: Their soft centers make them braces-safe. Powdery Candies: Like Sweet Tarts or Pixy Stix, which dissolve easily. If you're going for chocolate, stick to bite-sized pieces . Let the candy melt a bit in your mouth before chewing, and always rinse or brush afterward to avoid sugar buildup around your brackets. Candy Don'ts: Sticky, Chewy, and Hard Hazards to Avoid Some candies are better left in the trick-or-treat bag, especially if you want to avoid emergency repairs or broken braces. Candies to Avoid with Braces Caramels, Toffee, and Taffy: These sticky treats are the top offenders for pulling off brackets. Gummy Candy: Gummy bears, worms, and fruit snacks can wedge between brackets and teeth. Hard Candy and Lollipops: Biting into them can break or dislodge your wires and brackets. Nuts and Candies with Nuts: Snickers, Almond Joys, and peanut clusters are too crunchy for braces. Chewing Gum (even sugar-free): Gum can stick to braces and pull them loose. Licorice and Jelly Beans: Dense, chewy textures that can easily bend wires or stick in hardware. Popcorn Balls or Candy Apples: Fun to look at, but high-risk for anyone in orthodontic treatment. Even one broken bracket can delay your progress by weeks, and no one wants to spend Halloween weekend at the orthodontist! If in doubt, skip the sticky and choose something soft. Caring for Your Teeth After Halloween Candy or no candy, oral hygiene is extra important when you're wearing braces or aligners. The sugar in sweets feeds cavity-causing bacteria, which can lead to white spots, gum inflammation, and decay if not properly removed. Here's how to keep your teeth healthy after Halloween: Brush after every snack: Wait 15–20 minutes to allow your enamel to settle, then brush thoroughly, especially around brackets and along the gumline. Floss or use a water flosser daily: Clear out the sugar and debris that hide between teeth and under wires. Rinse with fluoride mouthwash: This helps strengthen enamel and neutralize acid from sugary treats. Stay hydrated: Water helps wash away sugar and keeps your mouth clean between brushes. Moderation matters: Instead of grazing on candy all day, enjoy a few pieces in one sitting and brush soon after. Our team is happy to help you find tools that make cleaning easier, from orthodontic flossers to travel brushes for on-the-go care. Aligner Patients: Your Own Halloween Cheat Sheet If you're wearing Invisalign or other clear aligners, you have a little more freedom, but that doesn't mean Halloween is a free-for-all. Here's what to keep in mind: Remove aligners before eating or drinking anything but water. Candy, soda, and even flavored water can stain or warp your trays. Brush before reinserting aligners. Sugar trapped under aligners can accelerate decay and cause cloudiness on your trays. Store aligners safely. Keep your case with you—napkins are the number one reason aligners get thrown away! Avoid hot drinks while wearing aligners. Heat can distort the shape of your trays. Limit sugary drinks and candies. Even without brackets, sugar exposure increases your cavity risk. Bonus tip: stick with soft chocolates, peanut butter cups, or melt-in-your-mouth sweets. These are easy to clean up after and won't risk damaging your aligners. Healthy (and Fun!) Halloween Alternatives Halloween doesn't have to mean sugar overload. There are plenty of braces-friendly snacks that still keep the fun (and flavor) alive: Soft Fruit Treats: Sliced bananas dipped in chocolate or yogurt-covered berries. Homemade Pumpkin Muffins or Cupcakes: Braces-safe and full of festive flavor. Applesauce or Pudding Cups: Great for trick-or-treat swaps or classroom parties. Frozen Yogurt or Smoothies: Sweet, creamy, and easy on teeth. Mini Cheese Packs or Pretzels: Perfect for patients who want a salty snack. Dark Chocolate Squares: A better choice for enamel since it melts quickly and has less sugar than sticky candy. Meet Our Doctors Dr. Anthony Puntillo Dr. Puntillo has been creating confident smiles in Northwest Indiana for more than 30 years. As a board-certified orthodontist, he is known for his precision, kindness, and commitment to the long-term health of every patient. He believes that orthodontics is about more than straight teeth, it's about building self-esteem and brighter futures. Dr. Christopher Crane Dr. Crane combines advanced orthodontic expertise with a modern, technology-driven approach. His passion for innovation ensures every patient receives efficient, comfortable, and effective care. Dr. Crane is deeply involved in the community and loves helping families experience life-changing orthodontic transformations. Dr. Carolyn Gardiner Dr. Gardiner brings warmth, skill, and detail-oriented care to every patient she meets. She's known for her gentle chairside manner and her dedication to crafting smiles that balance function and beauty. Her approach reflects our practice philosophy—personalized, family-friendly, and results-driven. Together, Dr. Puntillo, Dr. Crane, and Dr. Gardiner make Puntillo & Crane Orthodontics a trusted name across Northwest Indiana, where experience meets heart and every smile is treated like family. Why Choose Puntillo & Crane Orthodontics At Puntillo & Crane Orthodontics, we don't just straighten teeth. We help our patients protect and love their smiles every step of the way. Whether it's Halloween candy or everyday snacks, our goal is to guide you toward choices that keep your treatment on track and your smile healthy. Here's what makes our practice different: 30+ Years of Trusted Expertise: We've been building beautiful smiles and brighter futures across Northwest Indiana for over three decades. Comprehensive Care Options: From traditional braces to Invisalign® clear aligners, we offer customized treatment for every age and lifestyle. Four Convenient Locations: Crown Point, Merrillville, Schererville, and Valparaiso—making care accessible for your family. Exceptional Reputation: With over 1040 five-star reviews, our patients trust us for expertise, compassion, and results. Flexible Scheduling and Payment Options: We make orthodontic care simple and stress-free for families on the go. This Halloween, remember, you can enjoy the sweetness of the season while keeping your smile safe. Our team is always here to help you make the best decisions for your orthodontic journey. Conclusion Halloween is meant to be fun, and with the right candy game plan, it can be braces-safe too! At Puntillo & Crane Orthodontics, we want our patients to enjoy the season without worrying about broken brackets, bent wires, or delayed progress. Stick to soft, melt-in-your-mouth sweets, skip the sticky stuff, and don't forget to brush and floss afterward. And if something does happen, like a loose wire or popped bracket, don't panic. Give us a call, and we'll schedule a quick repair to keep your treatment moving smoothly. From our entire team, have a safe, happy, and braces-friendly Halloween! Puntillo & Crane Orthodontics Building Brighter Futures, One Smile at a Time 📍 Crown Point | Merrillville | Schererville | Valparaiso, IN 📞 219-267-1922 (Crown Point) | 219-769-7447 (Merrillville) | 219-322-8552 (Schererville) | 219-462-3537 (Valparaiso) 💬 Text: 219-244-2524 🌐 Visit pandcsmiles.com Frequently Asked Questions 1. Can I eat chocolate with braces? Yes! Soft chocolate without nuts, caramel, or sticky centers is perfectly safe. Just brush afterward to prevent sugar buildup. 2. What should I do if I accidentally eat something sticky and break a bracket? Don't worry. Call our office as soon as possible. We'll schedule a quick repair to keep your treatment on track. 3. Can I chew gum with braces or aligners? It's best to avoid gum while wearing braces, even if it's sugar-free. It can stick to wires and brackets and pull them loose. 4. What about aligner patients—can they eat any candy? Aligner patients can enjoy candy freely as long as they remove their trays before eating and brush before putting them back in. 5. How long should I wait to brush after eating candy? Wait about 15–20 minutes before brushing. This allows your enamel to re-harden after exposure to sugar and acid. 6. What's the best candy choice for braces? Soft chocolate or peanut butter cups. They melt easily, taste great, and won't harm your orthodontic appliances.

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