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Back to School....with Braces
Back to School... with Braces or Orthodontic Appliances!
It's hard to believe that another amazing summer vacation is slipping away. With the school year approaching, our team at Orchard of Smiles Orthodontics wanted to give some pointers for returning back to school with braces or other orthodontic appliances to mitigate the transition. Here are some pointers to keep your orthodontic appliances in great shape and your teeth healthy throughout the academic year:
Carry an 'Orthodontic Kit' To School
While adjusting to the the new orthodontic appliances, it will be helpful to pack some key items that facilitate caring for your teeth and braces in a ziplock bag or a small pouch. Some suggested items:
- Dental wax
- Soft Bristle toothbrush
- Fluoride toothpaste
- Proxy brush
- Lip balm
- Elastics
Bring a Bottle of Water
Water can help your child keep hydrated throughout the school day. Drinking water frequently also helps dislodge food particles from teeth and braces, fight cavities and prevent bad breath. Water is a much healthier choice that soda, fruit juice and other sugary beverages. Acidic and sugary drinks can lead to white spots (decalcification) and cavities.
Pack a Mouthguard
Do not forget to pack a mouthguard for sports. Children should always wear a mouthguard when participating in contact sports, physical activities and gym to protect their teeth and mouth from injuries.
Pack healthy, orthodontic friendly snacks
When packing school snacks avoid hard, crunchy and sticky foods that can damage orthodontic appliances. Examples of snacks to avoid are pita chips, corn chips, nuts popcorn. Apples, pears and carrots are great snack options if sliced into thin slices. Choose other healthy and brace friendly snacks such as yogurt, cheese, applesauce, rice cakes with humus and bananas.
Review School Lunch Menu in Advance
It is a good idea to review the school lunch menu before committing to buying a lunch. Braces friendly lunch foods include mashed potatoes, soft lean meats, cooked vegetables, soup and macaroni and cheese. If school lunch menu does not have any healthy foods that your child can eat with their orthodontic appliances it may be a better idea to pack a lunch for school.
Rinse with Fluoridated Mouthrinse
Have your children rinse with fluoride mouth rise after school, followed by a snack 30 minutes later. Fluoride strengthens teeth and promotes enamel remineralization.
Good luck! We want to wish everyone a wonderful and enlightening school year. If you have any questions, do not hesitate to call or email our office. We aim to be a resource for our community members! Our office is conveniently locate at 1629 Bridgetown Pike in Feasterville.
www.OrchardOfSmilesOrthodontics.com