We all know what time of year it is. The summer may seem like it has just started, but it’s time to get back to school already. Like a lot of other students, you may have gotten braces over summer break. If you are nervous about starting school again with your new braces, know you are not alone.
Fortunately, there are some ways to feel more comfortable starting the school year, even if you haven’t had braces at school before. If you head into the new school year prepared, you will be a pro at dealing with your braces before you know it.
Pack a Braces Supply Kit
Keeping a small case or bag in your locker or backpack can be incredibly helpful. You can even keep it handy when at sports or other extracurricular events.
Pack a Small Toothbrush, Toothpick, or Floss Pick
After you eat, even at school, pieces of food can get stuck behind wires and around your brackets. Drinking water can often help, but not always. Having the option to clean away stuck-on debris with the tools to help out can be a lifesaver.
Keep Extra Rubber Bands Handy
Whether you stash extra rubber bands in your kit, locker, backpack, or just your pocket, it is best to have some backup. Once you’ve had braces for a little while, you know these bands can break, sometimes at the most inopportune times. And you want to get a new one attached as soon as possible so there is no delay in completing your treatment.
Other Items You Find Useful
Anything else that helps with your braces can go in your kit. Think about packing lip balm or orthodontic wax if you find these items useful.
Keep Your Water Bottle Close
Having fresh water at the ready is not only good for keeping hydrated and healthy, but it is good for your braces. Drinking water and swishing it around your mouth can help keep your braces clean and free from debris. This is especially handy if you have something to eat and no opportunity to brush or check out your teeth in the mirror.
Eat Smart
Choose foods that play well with your braces. As you get more comfortable in braces, you will learn what foods work and which foods can present a challenge. Pack school lunches with foods that you have previously tested with your braces – you don’t want any surprises in the lunchroom.
When ordering a school lunch, pick braces-friendly options like pasta, mac and cheese, and other soft options. When choosing foods that you must bite into, like pizza, use a fork and knife to cut them up to avoid damaging your braces.
Mouth Guards
If you are an athlete, it is always important to wear a mouthguard to protect your teeth. It is even more important when you wear braces. Your wires and brackets are fragile and can be easily broken during contact sports. In addition, you do not want them to do damage to your mouth. A guard is essential.
Talk to Your Orthodontist
If you still have questions or are nervous about navigating the school day with braces, never hesitate to talk to us. At Thomas Orthodontics, we are experts in braces care and are happy to discuss all of your concerns.
And remember, sticking to your treatment plan will make sure you are out of your braces with your new, straight smile as soon as possible. Wear your rubber bands, properly care for your braces, and keep up with scheduling your regular appointments, and you will be heading into your first school year after braces before you know it!
