Braces, Aligners, and Back to School
Going back to school with braces or aligners can feel tricky, but don’t worry – we’ve got you covered! Here are some awesome tips to help you ace the school year.
- Pack a Braces-Friendly Lunch
- Avoid sticky and hard foods like chewy candies, gum, nuts, and popcorn. These can damage your braces.
- Choose soft foods like yogurt, smoothies, sandwiches, pasta, and soft fruits.
- Avoid sugary drinks as they can increase the risk of cavities.
- Create a Dental Care Kit & Keep it in Your Locker or Backpack
- Include a travel toothbrush, toothpaste, floss or floss picks, orthodontic wax, and a mirror.
- Stay Hydrated
- Drink plenty of water to keep your mouth clean and free from food particles.
- Keep Up with Oral Hygiene
- Brush after every meal and floss daily to maintain healthy teeth and gums.
- Remember to Bring Your Retainer Case to School With You
- When eating, place your aligners in their case instead of wrapping them in a napkin to avoid accidentally throwing them away.
- Prepare for Sports
- Wear a mouth guard to protect your braces, teeth, and mouth.
- Ask for Help
- If something doesn’t feel right, let your teacher or school nurse know. They can assist or contact your parents.
With these tips, you can confidently head back to school and keep your braces or aligners in great shape. We hope you have a fantastic year!