Are You Heading Back to Class with Braces?
It can be somewhat difficult to return to school while wearing braces, but with the correct planning, it can be easy and comfortable. These 6 pointers can help you get through the school year with confidence and keep your braces in optimal condition, from making the appropriate meal choices to practicing good oral hygiene and controlling discomfort.
Are you in the New Haven/Shoreline area and have questions about braces before your kid heads back to school?
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Tip 1: Choose the Right Foods
Dietary considerations are necessary for those wearing braces to prevent damage and pain. You can make better decisions at home and in the cafeteria if you know what to eat and what to avoid.
What to Eat
Braces are sensitive to certain foods, usually those that are hard or sticky, so it’s important to choose softer foods that will be more gentle on your braces. Here are a few examples:
- Yogurt and soft cheeses
- Scrambled eggs
- Mashed potatoes
- Pasta and soft-cooked vegetables
- Soft fruits like bananas and berries
- Smoothies and protein shakes
What to Avoid
Specific foods can easily cause damage to your braces, which may set your treatment back. Here are a few foods to make sure to avoid:
- Hard or crunchy foods like popcorn, nuts, and hard pretzels
- Sticky candies such as caramel, taffy, and gum
- Tough meats that require excessive chewing
- Whole raw vegetables like carrots and apples (cut them into smaller pieces if necessary)
- Ice cubes (avoid chewing on them!)
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Tip 2: Maintain Oral Hygiene
To avoid cavities and keep your breath fresh, you must keep your teeth and braces clean. Make sure you're prioritizing your oral hygiene all day long at school.
Cleaning On-the-Go
Brushing and rinsing after meals is important because food can easily become lodged in braces. Rinsing your mouth with water can help get rid of food particles if brushing isn't an option.
What to Include in Your Kit
Having a braces-friendly oral hygiene kit will help make sure you’re prepared for anything during your school day. Here are a few essentials that can be useful for certain situations:
- Travel toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste
- Floss threaders or orthodontic floss
- Interdental brushes for hard-to-reach spots
- Orthodontic wax to help reduce irritation
- A small mirror to check for food debris
- Mints for fresh breath (ideally containing xylitol)
Tip 3: Manage Discomfort
It's typical to experience discomfort with braces occasionally, particularly following adjustments. School days might be more comfortable if you know how to manage minor problems and relieve pain.
Pain Relief Methods
When your braces are feeling tight or are making your teeth and gums sore, try these methods:
- Use orthodontic wax to cushion brackets and wires
- Take over-the-counter pain relievers as directed
- Eat soft foods to ease pressure on sore teeth
- Apply a cold compress to the outside of your mouth
Immediate Actions for Breakage
In the instance that a bracket or wire breaks while you’re at school, here are some things that you can do in the moment:
- Use orthodontic wax to cover sharp edges and prevent irritation
- Avoid touching or playing with broken braces components
- Notify a parent or guardian to schedule an orthodontic visit if you cannot wait until your regularly scheduled appointment
Tip 4: Stay Confident
Feeling good about yourself makes it easier to get used to wearing braces. Having a positive outlook can significantly impact how you manage social situations.
Handling Peer Reactions
Most of your classmates and peers won’t think twice about your braces, but if you catch yourself feeling self-conscious:
- Remember that braces are common and temporary
- Keep a sense of humor about the experience
- Focus on your end goal – a healthy, beautiful smile
Positive Self-Image
Confidence always originates internally. Think positively and remind yourself of the reasons you initially decided to get orthodontic treatment.
Tip 5: Prepare for Emergencies
It’s always best to be prepared for the unexpected in the off chance that an emergency happens. Having a plan in place will help you to remain calm and stay prepared.
Emergency Kit Essentials
It’s recommended that you keep a small orthodontic emergency kit with you at school, including:
- Orthodontic wax
- Extra elastics (if applicable)
- A small mirror
- Pain relievers (if permitted by school policy)
- Contact information of your Orthodontist
When to Contact Your Orthodontist
Notify a parent or guardian so they can arrange for a professional repair if you suffer from excruciating pain, a damaged bracket, or a protruding wire that cannot be temporarily relieved with wax.
Tip 6: Regular Check-ups
Staying consistent with your orthodontic appointments is very important to staying on track with your treatment plan. Not missing adjustment appointments/check-ups will help streamline your treatment process.
Scheduling Appointments
Even during the hectic school months, be sure to schedule your orthodontic appointments routinely. Your progress may be significantly delayed if you miss appointments.
Importance of Regular Adjustments
Not missing your adjustments helps guarantee that your teeth are moving in the desired direction and at the correct speed. Your Orthodontist can track your progress and adjust your treatment as needed with routine appointments.
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Conclusion - You Can Do This!
Adjustments may be necessary while returning to school while wearing braces, but you can have a positive experience if you are prepared and have the correct attitude. To keep your orthodontic treatment on schedule, keep your braces in good condition, and preserve your confidence by following these guidelines. You'll achieve both a great smile and a successful school year with a little preparation and planning! dobie revolution orthodontics is always ready to help you with your smile journey!
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Conclusion: Maintaining a Healthy Smile During Treatment
Caring for your braces and teeth may require additional effort, but the results are worthwhile. You can keep your teeth and gums healthy during orthodontic treatment by maintaining a thorough oral hygiene program and utilizing the proper equipment. With constant care, your path to a straighter smile will be a success, leaving you with a stunning, long-lasting result.
Keeping your teeth and braces clean and healthy is essential for achieving the best results from your orthodontic treatment. Maintaining dental health can help keep your teeth healthy and bright after they've been removed. Feel free to schedule a free consultation with dobie revolution orthodontics today!