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Autumn is our favorite season here in the foothills. It offers crisp air, colorful leaves, occasional dustings of snow, and an abundance of apples. Fifty-plus years ago, 16 apple ranchers in the Camino area formed the Apple Hill Growers Association to promote and share their bounty. Today, the organization boasts 55 ranchers, and every fall, they open their gates to a steady stream of visitors eager to enjoy not only apples but also pears, other fruits, baked goods, and a taste of the bygone fun of farm life.
Navigating Fall Treats with Braces
This year, you might be wondering, is wearing braces a bummer when it comes to enjoying the harvest? While it’s true that both whole apples and pears are usually on the short list of foods to avoid, you don’t have to miss out on the delights of Apple Hill!
Slicing Your Way to Enjoyment
If you have fixed braces, resist the urge to bite into whole fruit; instead, enjoy apples and pears thinly sliced. This not only protects your braces but also allows you to sample multiple varieties. If you wear Invisalign, you can simply remove your trays to indulge—just remember to maintain your total daily wearing time.
Steer Clear of Sticky Situations
While taffy is undeniably delicious, it’s a sticky treat best avoided with braces, or at any time you can’t brush afterward. Remember, taffy apples and red candy apples are definitely off the list!
Careful of the Crunch
Be cautious with nuts, as small pieces can easily get caught in your brackets, leading to discomfort and potential issues.
Treats You Can Enjoy
Each ranch at Apple Hill has its specialties, and regular visitors soon establish their favorites. Here’s a list of delightful treats that are braces-friendly:
- Free slices of the many varieties of apples and pears grown here
- Old-world strudel
- Apple doughnuts and fritters
- Huge fruit pies of all kinds
- Sauces, fruit butters, jelly, cider, and even wines
- Fudge
- Apple milkshakes
- Down-home lunches like barbecue and fries
- Fun activities such as hayrides, pony rides, mazes, and games
If you’re looking for a pumpkin for Halloween or a tree for Christmas, you can find those at Apple Hill, too!
Braces Care: Enjoying the Experience
Wearing braces means taking extra care of your teeth, but that doesn’t stop you from fully enjoying outings with family and friends. For Invisalign users, remember to take out your trays when eating, but try to brush and floss before reinserting them. An alternative is to chew sugarless gum for a few minutes to help clean your teeth or rinse your mouth with water.
For everyone, enjoying the treats of fall requires attentive cleaning and flossing, as recommended by your dentist or orthodontist.
A Fun Fall Adventure Awaits
So, as you look forward to your next Apple Hill visit, approach it with a sense of adventure! Sample new foods that are kind to your braces enjoy activities in the refreshing fall air and bask in the sweet aromas and happy atmosphere. Smile—because that’s what both Apple Hill and your braces are all about!
