|By Dr. Jeffery A. Martin
Pack a small bag of supplies to keep your smile clean during the day. The bag should include a toothbrush, toothpaste, floss and wax. Take the time to brush and floss after meals to keep your braces free of food and debris that can cause tooth decay and discomfort. The wax is a must to keep your mouth comfortable.
Bring a large container of drinking water. For those times when you cannot take the time to brush and floss after eating, drinking water throughout the day will help to release foods caught in your braces. Drinking water also helps neutralize the acids from food which can cause staining of your teeth.
Pack brace-friendly food for lunch. I suggest asking your orthodontist for a list of foods you should not eat during your orthodontic treatment and avoid those foods. Instead, pack foods that are not hard or chewy and cut into bite size if necessary.
Bring your rubber bands. Elastics keep your treatment moving forward and can speed up treatment time if worn regularly.
Tell your orthodontist if you play sports or a musical instrument. Your orthodontist can supply you with a mouth guard or lip protectors to help make these activities more safe and comfortable for you.
Remember that many of your fellow students are in orthodontic treatment as well so you are not alone! Use these tips and you will be ready to conquer the school year….with a smile!
The school year can be an anxious and exciting time for students, especially if they began orthodontic treatment over the summer. Rest assured that with some simple planning and preparation, starting a new school year with braces can be a breeze! Here are some tips to help ease the transition:
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