At Johnson Orthodontics, we know that going back to school with braces can feel like a big change. But don’t worry! With the right preparation and mindset, you can have a smooth transition and keep your braces journey on track. Here are our top tips to help you navigate the school year with braces with ease.
Pack a Braces Care Kit
A braces care kit is essential for keeping good oral hygiene and handling any minor issues that might arise during the school day. Your kit should include:
Orthodontic Wax
This can be a lifesaver if you experience irritation from brackets or wires. Applying a small amount of wax over the problem area can provide instant relief.
Toothbrush & Toothpaste
Brushing after meals helps remove food particles that can get stuck in your braces. Consider a travel-sized toothbrush and toothpaste for convenience.
Dental Floss or Floss Picks
Flossing with braces can be challenging, but floss picks or orthodontic flossers make it easier to keep your teeth clean.
Mirror
A compact mirror allows you to check your braces after eating to ensure no food is stuck.
Mouthwash
A small bottle of mouthwash can help rinse away food particles and keep your breath fresh.
Choose Braces-Friendly Lunches
Certain foods can damage your braces or cause discomfort. Avoid hard, sticky, and crunchy foods like hard candies, nuts, popcorn, and chewing gum. Instead, opt for softer, braces-friendly options such as:
- Yogurt: Soft and easy to eat, yogurt is also a good source of calcium, which is great for your teeth.
- Soft Fruits: Bananas, berries, and peaches are not only easy to eat but also packed with vitamins and fiber.
- Sandwiches on Soft Bread: Opt for whole grain bread for added nutrients, and fill your sandwich with soft fillings like deli meat, cheese, and avocado.
- Pasta or Rice Dishes: These are generally easy to eat and can be combined with a variety of healthy ingredients like vegetables and lean proteins.
Stay Hydrated
Drinking plenty of water throughout the day helps keep your mouth clean and can prevent dry mouth, which is common with braces. Carry a water bottle with you, and make a habit of sipping water regularly. Staying hydrated also helps wash away food particles and reduce the risk of cavities.
Practice Good Oral Hygiene
Good oral hygiene is key when you have braces. Try to brush your teeth after meals if possible, and make sure to floss daily. Using a fluoride mouthwash can also help protect your teeth and keep your mouth fresh. Consider setting reminders on your phone to ensure you brush and floss regularly.
Manage Discomfort
It’s normal to experience some discomfort, especially after adjustments. Here are some ways you can manage it:
Orthodontic Wax: Use it to cover any brackets or wires that are causing irritation.
Pain Relievers: Carry over-the-counter pain relievers (with parental permission) to use if needed.
Cold Foods: Eating cold foods like ice cream or drinking cold water can help soothe sore spots in your mouth.
Be Prepared for Emergencies
Braces emergencies can happen, such as a broken wire or a loose bracket. It’s important to know how to handle these situations. If a wire breaks or becomes loose, try to use orthodontic wax to cover any sharp edges that might cause injury to your mouth.
Contact Johnson Orthodontics as soon as possible to schedule a repair. Keeping our contact information handy can be very useful in these situations.
Communicate With Teachers & Friends
Let your teachers and friends know you have braces so they can understand any special needs you may have.
For example, you might need extra time to clean your teeth after lunch or may need to avoid certain activities that could damage your braces. Being open about your braces can also help others understand and support you.
Follow Your Orthodontist’s Instructions
Always follow the instructions given by Johnson Orthodontics, whether it’s about wearing elastics, avoiding certain foods, or cleaning your braces.
This will help ensure your treatment stays on track and progresses as planned. Keeping to these guidelines can also help shorten the duration of your treatment.
Enjoy Your School Activities
Braces shouldn’t hold you back from enjoying school activities. Whether it’s sports, music, or clubs, most activities can still be enjoyed with braces. Just be sure to use a mouthguard if you’re involved in contact sports to protect your teeth and braces.
Don’t hesitate to ask Dr. Johnson for specific advice on how to manage braces during your favorite activities.
Start School Right With Johnson Orthodontics
Going back to school with braces might need some adjustments, but with these tips, you can make sure you have a comfortable and successful school year. Schedule your free consultation and visit us in Huntsville and Hampton Cove. Let’s make this school year a great one!
