Starting a new school year can be exciting, but if you have braces, it comes with a few added challenges. Whether you’re worried about managing discomfort, eating the right foods, or keeping your teeth clean, we’ve got tips to make your back-to-school experience as smooth as possible. Living in Bend offers lots of activities and fun, and we want to help you enjoy them even with braces.
Having braces means you’ll need to take some extra steps to care for your teeth during the school day. By preparing ahead, you can avoid common issues and keep your braces in good shape. From packing a braces-friendly kit to ensuring you have the right snacks, a little planning goes a long way.
Maintaining good oral hygiene is key to a successful orthodontic treatment. It doesn’t have to be hard, and with the right tools and habits, you can keep your teeth healthy and your braces intact all school year long. So let’s dive into some practical tips and tricks to help you navigate the school day with braces.
Preparing a Braces-Friendly School Kit
A braces-friendly school kit can make your day much easier. Start with the basics: pack a small travel toothbrush and a tube of fluoride toothpaste. This will help you clean your teeth after lunch and snacks. Don’t forget dental floss or floss picks to remove any food stuck between your braces.
Orthodontic wax is another must-have. Use it to cover any wires or brackets that might be poking or causing discomfort. Also, pack a small mirror to help you see what you’re doing when applying wax or checking your braces.
A small, portable mouthwash can also be helpful. Use it to rinse after eating if you can’t brush right away. Chewing gum is a big no-no with braces, so consider including sugar-free mints instead to keep your breath fresh.
Here’s a quick list of what to include in your kit:
- Travel toothbrush
- Fluoride toothpaste
- Dental floss or floss picks
- Orthodontic wax
- Small mirror
- Portable mouthwash
- Sugar-free mints
Managing Discomfort and Pain in the Classroom
Managing discomfort in the classroom is important for staying focused on your studies. One way to handle pain is by using over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen. Always follow the dosage instructions and keep some in your backpack if you need them during the day.
If you’re feeling soreness from adjustments, a cold pack can help reduce swelling and numb the area. Though you can’t carry an ice pack around school, sipping on cold water can offer temporary relief. Keeping a water bottle filled with cold water can be a practical solution.
Remember to use orthodontic wax for immediate relief if any part of your braces is causing irritation. Apply the wax directly to the bracket or wire that is causing discomfort. It will create a smooth surface and prevent the metal from rubbing against the inside of your cheeks or lips.
Lastly, practice good posture and avoid leaning or pressing your face against hard surfaces like your desk. This can help avoid extra pressure on your braces, making you more comfortable throughout the school day.
Braces-Friendly Lunch and Snack Ideas
Eating the right foods is important when you have braces. Some foods can damage your braces, while others are safe and easy to eat. Here are some braces-friendly lunch and snack ideas to keep you healthy and your braces intact.
Start with soft foods. Sandwiches with soft bread are a great choice. Fill them with deli meats, cheese, and soft vegetables like avocado or cucumber. Avoid hard crusty bread as it can be tough on your braces.
For snacks, opt for yogurt, applesauce, or pudding. These options are not only easy to eat but also delicious. Soft fruits like bananas, berries, and peaches are also good choices. Stay clear of hard fruits like apples unless they are cut into small, manageable pieces.
Cooked pasta, rice dishes, and soups are excellent for lunch. They are gentle on your teeth and provide the nutrition you need. If you crave something crunchy, try softer alternatives like cheese sticks or sliced deli meats. Avoid hard, sticky, and chewy snacks like nuts, caramel, and gum, as they can damage your braces.
Tips for Maintaining Oral Hygiene at School
Keeping your braces clean while at school is crucial for your oral health. First, make it a habit to brush your teeth after lunch. Keep a small toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste in your locker or backpack. This ensures you can quickly clean your teeth and braces after eating.
Flossing is just as important. Use floss picks or a floss threader to clean between your teeth and around your braces. It might take a bit of practice, but flossing helps remove trapped food particles and reduces plaque build-up.
Rinsing your mouth with water after meals can also help. If you can’t brush right away, a quick rinse will remove some of the food and bacteria until you can brush properly. A small bottle of mouthwash can be handy for a quick refresh during the day.
Finally, avoid sugary drinks like soda and juice. They can contribute to tooth decay and make it harder to keep your braces clean. Stick to water as your main beverage. By maintaining these habits, you can keep your teeth and braces in great shape throughout the school year.
Getting ready for the new school year with braces requires a bit of preparation, but it’s definitely manageable with the right steps and the best orthdontist in Bend, OR by your side. By packing a braces-friendly school kit, you are better prepared to handle any discomfort and keep your braces clean. Eating braces-friendly foods ensures you won’t have to worry about damaging your braces during lunch or snack time.
Maintaining good oral hygiene at school is important to keep your treatment on track and your teeth healthy. Building these habits will make your school year less stressful and help you focus more on learning and having fun with your friends.
If you have any questions or need more braces care tips, Sullivan Orthodontics in Bend is here to help. Contact our orthodontist in Bend today to schedule an appointment and get personalized advice to keep your braces in top shape all year long.