And How to Enjoy Them with Braces
By Dr. Kim Smith | Smile Suite Orthodontics, Evanston IL
Fall and winter in Evanston bring cozy weather, exciting community events, and plenty of treats — from caramel apples to peppermint bark. But if you or your child has braces, the change in seasons can also raise a few questions: What can we eat? Can we still enjoy the festivals? What if something breaks during the holidays?
At Smile Suite Orthodontics, we believe braces shouldn’t hold you back from enjoying everything Evanston has to offer this season. With a little planning and a few easy tips, you can celebrate fall and winter to the fullest — brackets, wires, and all.
🍁 Fall Fun in Evanston (Yes, with Braces!)
From the crunch of leaves underfoot to the buzz of local fall festivals, there’s no shortage of family-friendly fun around town. Here are a few of our favorites — plus how to enjoy them braces-style:
🍂 1. Evanston Farmers Market (through early November)
Grab soft fruits like bananas, ripe pears, or applesauce — all braces-approved. Skip the candied or caramel-covered apples (too sticky!) and enjoy hot cider instead.
🎃 2. Downtown Evanston Halloween Stroll
We love seeing our patients dressed up in costume! Just be mindful of sticky candies like taffy, Skittles, and Starburst. Instead, look for braces-safe treats like:
- Peanut butter cups (not frozen)
- Soft chocolate
- Plain M&Ms (not peanut)
- Marshmallow treats
Dr. Kim’s tip: Bring a backup bag for candy swaps with friends or siblings, and brush as soon as you get home!
🏈 3. ETHS Football Games & Fall Sports
If your child plays or cheers at games, be sure they’re wearing a mouthguard (especially in contact sports). We offer custom-fit guards to protect their smile on the field.
❄️ Winter Events & Holiday Magic
Evanston truly sparkles in the winter months — and so can your smile, even in braces! Here’s how to enjoy holiday season highlights:
🎄 1. Holiday Tree Lighting & Winter Festivals
Downtown’s tree lighting and holiday markets are a must-see. When sampling treats, stick with soft cookies, cupcakes, or hot cocoa (watch the sugar!).
🎁 2. Winter Break Activities
If your family is traveling, let us know in advance — we can schedule a check-up before you go and give you a braces care travel kit. Keep wax, extra elastics, a toothbrush, and a small mirror on hand.
🧸 3. Giving Back: Smile Suite Holiday Drive
Each year, we support local organizations with a toy or coat drive. Keep an eye on our socials or ask at your next appointment — we love seeing patients get involved!
🦷 Braces-Safe Holiday Foods (and What to Avoid)
The holidays are full of indulgent foods — many of which are completely fine to enjoy with braces! Here’s a quick guide:
✅ Safe to Enjoy:
- Mashed potatoes, stuffing, and soft-cooked veggies
- Mac & cheese, baked pastas, and soft rolls
- Soft cookies, pumpkin pie, cheesecake
- Turkey or ham (cut into small, bite-sized pieces)
🚫 Skip or Swap:
- Candy canes and peppermint bark (too hard)
- Nuts and popcorn
- Caramel, toffee, or anything super sticky
- Hard breads, crusty rolls, or bagels
🧼 Keep Your Smile Clean During the Holidays
With extra sweets, rich foods, and busy schedules, it’s easy for brushing and flossing to slip — but this is when consistency matters most! A few quick reminders:
- Brush after every meal if possible (or at least twice a day)
- Use an interdental brush or floss threader to clean around brackets
- Carry a travel kit with you during long days out
- Drink water throughout the day to rinse away sugar and debris
- Don’t use your teeth as tools — especially with gift wrap or tape!
🚨 What If Something Breaks While You’re Out?
We’re here for you, even during the holidays! If a bracket comes loose, a wire pokes out, or something just doesn’t feel right:
- Apply wax over sharp edges
- Avoid hard foods until we can take a look
- Call our office to schedule a quick repair — we’ll fit you in ASAP!
We keep emergency slots open during holiday weeks for exactly this reason.
📍 Local, Family-Friendly Favorites Near Smile Suite
While you’re out and about near 2422 Main St, Evanston, IL 60202, check out these nearby spots for braces-friendly seasonal treats or post-appointment rewards:
- Sweet Temptations Bake Shop – Soft cupcakes and pudding-based desserts
- Backlot Coffee – Cozy, sugar-free hot drinks (we recommend peppermint tea!)
- Valli Produce – Grab fresh fruit, soup ingredients, or soft lunch ideas
- D&D’s Place – For teens: they make fun, soft milkshakes and seasonal flavors (no chewy toppings though!)
🎉 Celebrate the Season — Smiling All the Way
Braces don’t mean missing out — they just mean celebrating smart. At Smile Suite Orthodontics, we love helping our Evanston families navigate every season with ease. Whether it’s finding the right holiday treats, protecting your child’s smile on the field, or fitting in an appointment between events, we’re here for all of it.
Let this fall and winter be filled with warmth, laughter, and smiles that shine — brackets and all.
Need to schedule an appointment before winter break? Call or book online today! We’ll make sure your smile is ready for every holiday photo.
