Easter is a time for celebration, family traditions, and of course—plenty of treats. However, a basket full of sticky candy or crunchy snacks can lead to more stress than smiles for anyone wearing braces. At McDonough Orthodontics, we believe every patient should be able to enjoy the holiday without risking their orthodontic progress. That is why we have created a guide filled with braces-safe treats, games, and creative ideas to help you and your family enjoy a fun, worry-free Easter.
What to Include: The Braces-Friendly Basket List
Here are some festive and orthodontist-approved items to help you build the perfect Easter basket—no emergency repairs needed.
Soft Chocolate Treats
Melt-in-your-mouth chocolate is a safer option when chosen wisely. Try:
- Plain milk or dark chocolate bars (no nuts or caramel)
- Soft chocolate bunnies
- Chocolate-covered marshmallows
Breaking them into small, bite-sized pieces makes them even easier to enjoy safely.
Homemade Easter Goodies
Baking together can be a meaningful (and delicious) way to celebrate. Consider:
- Soft sugar cookies in egg or bunny shapes
- Mini cupcakes with whipped frosting
- Marshmallow treats or soft cereal bars shaped for the season
Fruity and Festive Options
Naturally sweet and gentle on braces, these fruity choices are both healthy and fun:
- Sliced melons or berries
- Applesauce pouches
- Fruit cups packed in natural juice
Non-Candy Basket Fillers
Who says Easter baskets need to be filled with candy? Some fun alternatives include:
- Spring-themed stickers, small puzzles, or activity books
- A colorful, soft-bristled toothbrush
- Bunny socks, lip balm, or a mini stuffed animal
- A handwritten coupon for a family activity, like a movie night or trip to the park
Braces-Safe Surprise Eggs
Plastic eggs can hold more than just candy. Some safe and fun fillers include:
- Sugar-free gum approved by your orthodontist
- Tiny toys, funny erasers, or keychains
- Uplifting notes or silly jokes
What to Avoid: The “No-Bunny Zone”
Some Easter treats may be tempting, but they are unsafe for braces. Keep these out of the basket:
- Sticky candy like caramel, jellybeans, or taffy
- Hard candies and nuts
- Chewy treats such as licorice or gummy bears
- Popcorn or crunchy snacks that can damage wires or brackets
Keeping these out of reach will help avoid discomfort or unexpected visits to the office.
Easter Fun Beyond the Basket: Family-Friendly Activities
Easter memories go beyond candy. Here are a few festive, braces-safe activities everyone can enjoy:
Easter Egg Scavenger Hunt
Hide clues, mini toys, or coupons in plastic eggs around the house or yard. Let the kids hunt for prizes that go beyond sugar.
Egg Decorating Station
Skip the hard-boiled eggs and decorate craft eggs using paints, stickers, ribbons, and glitter. It is mess-free and creative fun for all ages.
Bunny Hop Sack Race
Set up a backyard race using pillowcases or fabric sacks. Offer fun prizes for participation rather than competition.
DIY Easter Photo Booth
Make a cheerful photo corner with props like bunny ears, spring hats, and silly signs. Snap pictures and create lasting memories together.
Why Choose McDonough Orthodontics?
At McDonough Orthodontics, we are proud to be the trusted choice for orthodontic care in Salt Lake City. Many dentists and dental professionals refer their patients and their family members to our office. That level of trust speaks volumes about the quality of care and results we consistently deliver.
Our convenient location right off the freeway makes it easy to get to your appointments, and we offer flexible scheduling and financing options that work with your life—not against it.
Our team consists of highly trained, experienced, and exceptionally friendly professionals dedicated to making every visit positive and productive. We genuinely love what we do, which shows in our relationships with our patients. Most of the patients we see come to us through referrals from their friends and family.
We also understand that life does not always follow a schedule. That is why we offer outstanding emergency care and will always go above and beyond to ensure that someone is available when you need help most.
When you choose McDonough Orthodontics, you choose trusted expertise, compassionate care, and a team that treats you like family.
Happy Easter from McDonough Orthodontics
From everyone at McDonough Orthodontics, we wish you and your loved ones a joyful, healthy, and braces-safe Easter season. If you have any questions about orthodontic care, need assistance during the holiday, or would like to schedule a visit, we are here and happy to help.
McDonough Orthodontics
6070 S. 1300 E., Suite 202
Murray, UT 84121
Phone: (801) 266-2662