Christmas is one of the most magical times of the year — from decorating the Christmas tree to listening to Christmas music in your cozy Christmas pajamas. And as everyone counts down asking, “How many days till Christmas?” the celebrations (and the eating!) begin.
If you or your child has braces this Christmas, you might wonder which holiday foods are safe. The good news: a braces-friendly holiday is completely possible. You can still enjoy delicious dinner ideas, easy dinner recipes, and soft Christmas desserts without harming brackets or wires.
This guide from Unique Orthodontics highlights the best braces-friendly foods, sweets, snacks, and Christmas dinner recipes for 2025 — plus what to avoid.
🎥 Want to see these braces-friendly Christmas foods in action? Check out our Instagram where we walk through the top holiday foods that are safe for braces!
Braces-Friendly Christmas Dinner Ideas for 2025
Traditional Christmas dishes can absolutely work with braces — just choose soft, easy-to-chew options.
Soft Protein Options
- Roasted turkey (no crispy skin)
- Thin-sliced baked ham
- Slow-cooked chicken, beef, or pork
- Meatloaf
- Soft plant-based proteins
Soft, Festive Side Dishes
- Mashed potatoes or sweet potatoes
- Soft stuffing (no nuts or crusty pieces)
- Cooked veggies
- Mac & cheese
- Soft rolls
- Creamy risotto or rice
These are perfect if you’re searching for easy dinner ideas or Christmas dinner recipes 2025 that won’t cause orthodontic issues.
Braces-Friendly Christmas Desserts
Christmas wouldn’t be complete without sweets — and there are plenty of soft Christmas desserts that are braces-safe.
Safe Soft Desserts
- Cheesecake
- Soft sugar cookies
- Pumpkin, apple, or custard pies
- Bread pudding
- Mousse or pudding cups
- Soft cupcakes or holiday cakes
Desserts to Avoid
- Sticky treats (caramel, taffy)
- Hard candy canes
- Crunchy nut-filled desserts
- Tough gingerbread cookies or houses
Braces-Friendly Snacks & Appetizers
Between watching holiday movies and gathering around the Christmas tree, snacks are a must.
Safe Snacks
- Deviled eggs
- Soft cheese with soft crackers
- Spinach dip
- Mini quiches
- Soft fruit
- Soft meatballs
- Mashed potato bites
Snacks to Avoid
- Hard pretzels
- Mixed nuts
- Popcorn
- Crunchy crackers
- Crusty bread
How to Protect Braces During Holiday Meals
- Cut food into small bites
- Chew with back teeth
- Drink water often
- Rinse after sugary foods
- Keep orthodontic wax handy
- Call us if a bracket breaks, Unique Orthodontics is here to help
FAQ: Eating With Braces at Christmas
Can I eat candy canes with braces?
No, they’re too hard and can easily break brackets.
What Christmas desserts are safe?
Soft sugar cookies, cheesecake, mousse, pudding, and custard pies.
Can I enjoy Christmas dinner with braces?
Absolutely! Just be sure to stick to soft proteins, mashed sides, and easy-to-chew dishes.
How do I avoid breaking a bracket?
Avoid hard or sticky foods and follow the braces-friendly menu above.
Final Holiday Message From Unique Orthodontics
From decorating the tree to relaxing in your Christmas pajamas, the holidays should be joyful — not stressful. With these braces-friendly Christmas dinner recipes 2025, soft desserts, and simple dinner ideas, your family can enjoy the season comfortably and confidently.
If you have questions about eating with braces or need orthodontic support this holiday season, we’re here to help.
Contact us today to schedule your free consultation and start your journey to a healthy, confident smile. We proudly serve families across Clovis, Fresno, Madera, Hanford, Visalia, Tulare, and Merced — find your nearest Unique Orthodontics location below:
- Fresno Location (Cedar)
- Fresno Location
- Clovis Location (Near Buchanan)
- Madera Location
- Tulare Location
- Hanford Location
- Visalia Location
- Merced Location
You can also reach us anytime through our Contact Us page.
Wishing you a safe, bright, and braces-friendly Christmas! 🎄✨
