Holiday Game Plan: The "This or That" & Travel Guide for Your Smile

The holidays are here, which means family, fun, and—let's be real—a lot of food. Whether you are in braces or Invisalign, we want to make sure you stay on the winning track this season.

Think of this as your strategic playbook. Here is the official Lazzara Smiles "This or That" guide to holiday eats and our top tips for traveling like a pro.

The Holiday "This or That" Challenge

When you are staring down the buffet table, making the right call is key. Remember: hard, sticky, and chewy foods are the opponent!

THAT (The Benchwarmers - Avoid These):

• Candy Canes & Peppermint Bark: Hard candy is the quickest way to pop a bracket.

  
  

• Pecan Pie: The sticky filling combined with crunchy nuts is a major "no-go."

  
  

• Caramel & Toffee: Sticky foods bend wires and get stuck where you can't reach.

  
  

• Whole Apples or Raw Carrots: Unless cut into tiny bite-sized pieces, keep these on the sidelines.

  
  

THIS (The MVPs - Enjoy These!):

• Soft Sugar Cookies & Brownies: As long as there are no nuts, you are clear to score!

  
  

• Pumpkin or Silk Pie: Soft, delicious, and totally braces-friendly.

  
  

• Mashed Potatoes & Stuffing: The ultimate comfort foods that are gentle on your teeth.

  
  

• Turkey & Ham: Totally safe, just be careful with meat on the bone!

  
  

TIP: If you have Invisalign, remove your aligners before you indulge and brush before putting them back in!

Travel Tips for the "Away Game"

Heading out of town? Don't leave home without your gear!

1. Pack an "Emergency" Kit Toss orthodontic wax (for poking wires), a proxy brush, and floss threaders in your bag. Better to have it and not need it!

2. The 20-Hour Rule (Invisalign) Don't let the holiday schedule throw you off! Keep those aligners in for 20-22 hours a day for the best results.

3. Keep Your Case Close Never wrap aligners in a napkin—that is the number one way they get thrown in the trash! Put them directly in their case.

4. Hydrate with Water Drinking water helps rinse away sugar and protects your teeth. Plus, it is the only thing you should drink while wearing aligners.

Let’s Finish the Year Strong!

We want you to enjoy the holidays without worrying about your teeth. If you do have a true emergency, give us a call!

From Dr. Lazzara and the team, have a safe and winning holiday season!