There is something special about the holidays here in St. George — 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 Orthodontic Specialists put together a fun 12 Days of Braces guide filled with easy, enjoyable holiday orthodontic tips for families throughout our community.
Let’s count down together!
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
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
Utah 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 Utah-style fried 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.
♫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
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 Orthodontic Specialists, we wish you a joyful holiday and a bright year ahead.
Orthodontic Specialists
640 E 700 S Suite 101
St. George, UT 84770
