When schools are closed over the summer season, kids feel like they have all the freedom in the world, which is completely understandable! If your child will be wearing braces during the summer months, it’s very important that you encourage them to continue to take good care of his/her braces (and teeth) so you don’t run into any problems that can derail orthodontic treatment. Below are a few tips our orthodontists have put together to help take good care of your braces while you’re out enjoying the warm weather!
Don’t skip appointments
Regardless of how busy you are or how much fun you’re having, be sure not to skip any of the appointments we’ve scheduled for you. Your braces need to be checked and tightened up every few weeks. Plus, when you visit us during the summer, you can tell us about all the fun things you’re doing during your free time!
Stick with your regular oral hygiene routine
We know that it’s easy to put your oral hygiene on the back burner when you’re busy during the summer and having fun! However, you need to keep up with your brushing and flossing to ensure you don’t run into any problems like tooth decay during your orthodontic treatment. We recommend sticking to the same oral hygiene routine you currently follow so you don’t slack off with your brushing and flossing.
Watch what you eat
There are lots of delicious seasonal foods to enjoy during the summer like corn-on-cob and all kinds of ice cream treats. But remember that sugar leads to cavities and that some foods like corn-on-the-cob can damage your braces. Try your best to maintain a healthy diet over the summer and remember to steer clear of all those braces-busting foods that can do quite a bit of damage to the appliances on your teeth.
Carry a braces care kit with you
To ensure you always have what you need to take good care of your braces and teeth, put together a little kit containing the following items:
- Toothbrush
- Toothpaste
- Floss
- Small mirror
- Orthodontic wax
When it’s time to brush and floss when you’re away from home, just find a quiet place where you can clean your teeth. The wax will come in handy if a part of your braces starts poking or rubbing on the inside of your cheek.
Contact Charlottesville Orthodontics today
We want you to enjoy all the fun the summer months have to offer, without having to worry about your braces! If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us for the answers you need! Enjoy your summer and we’ll see you at your next scheduled appointment!