Braces vs. Toffee Apples: A Hull Fair Survival Guide from Manor Dental

Hull Fair

It’s that time of year again – the lights are up, the rides are spinning, and the smell of sweet treats fills the air… Hull Fair is back!

As one of the most exciting events on the local calendar, we know many of our patients – especially teens and families – are heading down for some well-deserved fun. But if you or your child has braces, there’s something you need to keep in mind before sinking your teeth into a sticky toffee apple or chewy cinder toffee.

Let’s talk about how to enjoy the fair without risking your orthodontic progress (or an emergency trip to the dentist!).

🚫 Braces + Sticky Sweets = A Bad Combo

While classic Hull Fair treats like toffee apples, fudge, and boiled sweets are delicious, they’re also some of the worst offenders when it comes to damaging braces.

Sticky or hard sweets can:

  • Break brackets or wires

  • Pull off rubber bands

  • Bend wires, affecting how your teeth move

  • Increase plaque and risk of decay around brackets

Even one wrong bite can mean an uncomfortable few days and an unexpected trip to see us.

🍬 What to Avoid at Hull Fair (If You Have Braces)

Here’s a list of common fair treats we recommend avoiding if you have braces:

🚫 Avoid This ❗ Why
Toffee apples Very hard and sticky – can easily break brackets
Cinder toffee Crunchy and sugary – sticks to braces
Chewy sweets (e.g. nougat, gummy snakes) Stretchy texture pulls at brackets
Boiled sweets (e.g. pear drops, lollies) Hard and slow-dissolving – bite risk
Popcorn Kernels can get stuck or snap wires

✅ Braces-Safe Fairground Options

Don’t worry – there are still plenty of ways to enjoy Hull Fair without damaging your braces.

Here are some safer options:

  • Soft doughnuts (without toffee or sticky toppings)

  • Ice cream or milkshakes

  • Chocolate 

  • Hot dogs or burgers (cut into manageable bites)

  • Slushies or soft drinks (in moderation – rinse with water after)

After the Fair: Quick Clean-Up Tips

After a night of treats and thrills:

  • Brush your teeth thoroughly (especially around brackets)

  • Floss or use interdental brushes to get rid of any sneaky food bits

  • Use mouthwash for extra protection

Can’t brush right away? Rinse with water and chew sugar-free gum (if your orthodontist allows it).

👨‍⚕️ Need Help with a Broken Bracket?

If you have an orthodontic emergency after Hull Fair (like a loose wire or bracket), give us a call on 01482 563593. We’ll get you booked in as soon as possible.

🎡 Final Thoughts from Manor Dental Hull

Hull Fair is all about fun, and we don’t want braces to get in the way of that! Just be mindful of what you’re eating and choose brace-friendly treats. Trust us – your future smile will thank you!

From all of us at Manor Dental Hull, have a safe, fun, and smile-friendly Hull Fair!

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