*School bells ring in the distance* It’s that time again! School is back in session and if you’re starting off the school year with a fresh metal grill, you may have a mix of emotions. It’s only natural.
“Do I have to give up my favorite food this year? What if I get a piece of food stuck in my braces? Can I still play sports?”
Your questions are valid! Your experience doesn’t have to be awkward. Braces treatment is a lot less challenging than you may think.
Your friends here at Senties Family Orthodontics have the pro tips you need to go back to school with confidence. (We have a feeling this is going to be your best school year yet.)
1. Be selfie-ready at all times with your braces care kit.
Don’t let your breakfast linger into lunch with you! Carrying a braces care kit is ideal for keeping your smile clean and avoiding the embarrassing realization that you had a piece of lettuce in your teeth the whole time.
Consider any of these items for your handy kit:
- Mini toothbrush
- Mini toothpaste
- Floss
- Interproximal brush
- Pocket mirror
- Orthodontic wax
You don’t have to carry too many items or spend a lot of money! At our office, you will get a care kit when you get your braces on for the first time so you only have to keep it stocked while you are in treatment. As long as you have a travel-friendly toothbrush and toothpaste, you’re good to go.
After breakfast, lunch and snacks, bring your braces care kit to the bathroom for a quick cleanse. Clean teeth = exceptional treatment results + great breath.
2. Keep it cool with a refillable water bottle.
Bring your coolest water bottle to school and refill it a few times each day. You’ll see the benefits pretty quickly! Water plays an important role in your orthodontic treatment journey, from your dental health to your mental health.
- Drinking water strengthens your teeth and helps keep your braces clean! If you want a beautiful set of pearly whites (and good breath), it’s a good idea to keep water on hand.
- Drinking water is great for your mental health. Studies show that it reduces the risk of anxiety and depression!
- Water is your skin’s best friend; it’s proven to have a positive effect on skin appearance and can even prevent acne!
Plus, drinking more water means more bathroom breaks – and more bathroom breaks means more chances to use your braces care kit.
3. Don’t take risks with your precious smile!
Life is all about taking risks – safe risks, that is. Ask that girl or guy out. Learn how to play the drums. Try out for the main role in the upcoming play! Why not? Live a little!
However, one risk you don’t want to take this school year (or ever) is stepping onto the field or court without your mouthguard. Leaving your teeth exposed to a ball spiraling toward your face or another player’s elbow is a dangerous, painful, and expensive risk.
According to studies published by the American Dental Association, “individuals who do not use mouthguards have more than twice the increased risk of orofacial injury.” Wearing a mouthguard reduces the chances of dentofacial injuries in collision sports by 27.6%!
Your mouthguard protects you from a potential braces emergency, or worse – a cut lip or a missing tooth. If you don’t have a mouthguard yet, please let our team know at your next appointment and we can help you choose the best one.
4. Pack some braces-friendly snacks – just in case.
Let’s be real, who doesn’t appreciate back-up snacks? Whether you prefer eating school lunches or packing lunches from home, it’s a good idea to keep some braces-friendly snacks in your locker.
During the first week with braces, your teeth and gums may be a bit sore, and you may feel discouraged from eating some of your usual foods. (Don’t worry, this is temporary!) While your mouth is still adjusting to braces treatment, you may want to pack some soft snacks, like:
- Pasta salad
- Oatmeal
- Apple sauce
- Yogurt
- Soft chocolate
- Chicken soup
After the first week or so with braces, you may be able to reintroduce the full braces-approved menu. Try any of these snacks:
- String cheese
- Muffins
- Shredded chicken
- Spaghetti and meatballs
- Fruit salad
- Grilled cheese
With braces-friendly snacks by your side, you won’t have to face lunch on your own or feel that your options are limited. (And you won’t be hangry by the end of the day.)
5. Smile as much as possible!
Take every chance to smile with friends – and in the mirror! Watch your smile transform over the months and start tapping into the confidence you’re gaining.
With metal braces, you’ll be able to customize your braces colors by choosing new elastics for your brackets at each adjustment appointment. Show off your colorful style or keep it more subtle with a monochromatic pattern. Choose holiday-themed colors or the official colors of your favorite sports team. Your smile is yours to design!
Remember, all of your hard work will pay off soon. Enjoy this school year – and prepare for a life-changing smile!
Need more back-to-school tips?
Please don’t hesitate to reach out to us! We’ll give you all of the tips and advice you need for a comfortable transition back to school – with braces, but without the awkwardness.
Has your child received his or her first orthodontic exam yet? We are a leading orthodontist in San Antonio, and we offer free first visits. Your first visit includes a one-on-one consultation with Dr. Senties and a thorough orthodontic exam with x-rays and photos!
Request your complimentary back-to-school orthodontic exam today.
