Summer is a time for fun and adventure, but if you have braces, it’s important to take extra care to keep them in top shape. With all the outdoor activities, trips to the beach, and summer snacks, braces can face extra challenges. If you’re living in Redmond and enjoying the summer sun, we’ve got some great tips to help you maintain your braces during these busy months.
One big part of protecting your braces in the summer is understanding how to keep them clean. With more opportunities to eat out and enjoy summer treats, you’ll need to be diligent about brushing and flossing. Summer isn’t just about keeping your braces clean, though—it’s also about making smart food choices. Some foods can damage your braces, while others are safe and enjoyable.
Additionally, summer brings a lot of chances to play sports and participate in physical activities, which means you’ll need to take steps to protect your braces from impact. And let’s not forget about travel. If you’re going on vacation, you’ll want to be prepared for any braces-related emergencies. Stay with us as we dive into these tips to help you enjoy a worry-free summer with your braces in Redmond.
Keep Your Braces Clean During the Summer
Keeping your braces clean is extra important during the summer. With more outdoor activities and eating on the go, it’s easy for food to get stuck in your braces. The first step is to brush your teeth after every meal. Make sure to use a toothbrush with soft bristles and fluoride toothpaste. Spend at least two minutes brushing, making sure to get all the nooks and crannies around your braces.
Flossing is just as important as brushing. Use a floss threader to help you get the floss under the wires of your braces. This will help you remove any food particles and plaque that brushing might miss. It’s a good idea to carry a small floss kit with you, especially if you’re spending the day out and about.
Don’t forget about mouthwash. Rinsing with a fluoride mouthwash can help keep your mouth clean and fresh. It can also help strengthen your teeth, which is important when you have braces. If you’re out and can’t brush your teeth right away, try rinsing your mouth with water to remove some of the food particles.
Best Foods to Eat with Braces at Summer Events
Summer is full of delicious foods, but not all of them are braces-friendly. It’s important to know which foods are safe for your braces to avoid any damage. Here’s a list of braces-friendly foods that are perfect for summer events:
- Soft Fruits: Enjoy bananas, berries, and peaches. These fruits are easy to eat and won’t harm your braces.
- Vegetables: Opt for cooked or steamed veggies instead of raw ones. Carrots, broccoli, and squash are great choices.
- Dairy Products: Cheese, yogurt, and soft-serve ice cream are tasty and safe for your braces.
- Soft Meats: Meat like chicken, turkey, and fish are easier to chew and less likely to get stuck in your braces.
- Smoothies: Blend your favorite fruits and vegetables into a refreshing smoothie. It’s a great way to enjoy your favorite flavors without worrying about damage.
Avoid hard, crunchy snacks like chips, nuts, and popcorn. These can get stuck in your braces and cause problems. Sticky foods like gum and caramel are also a no-go, as they can pull on your braces and damage them. By sticking to braces-friendly options, you can enjoy all the fun summer events without any worries.
Protecting Your Braces During Sports and Activities
Summer is the perfect time for sports and outdoor fun, but playing sports with braces requires a bit of extra care. To protect your braces during activities, always wear a mouthguard. Mouthguards are essential for preventing injuries to your teeth and braces. Talk to us about getting a custom-fit mouthguard that provides the best protection and comfort.
Choose activities that are less likely to cause injury to your mouth. While contact sports like football or basketball can still be enjoyed, wearing the right protection is key. For non-contact activities like swimming, jogging, or yoga, there’s less risk, but it’s always good to stay mindful of any accidents that might happen.
If you are involved in any high-contact sports or activities, check your braces regularly for any damage. Broken or loose braces can cause discomfort and need to be fixed as soon as possible. Keep an eye on your braces, and don’t hesitate to reach out to us if you notice any issues. Taking these precautions can help keep your braces safe while you stay active.
Emergency Tips for Braces Care While Traveling
Summer often means vacations and traveling, which can make it tricky to manage braces emergencies. The first tip is to always pack a braces care kit. Include items like orthodontic wax, a small mirror, a toothbrush, toothpaste, floss, and a small bottle of mouthwash. This will help you handle minor issues right away.
In case of an orthodontic emergency in Redmon, like loose wires or brackets, orthodontic wax can be a lifesaver. Apply the wax to any part of your braces causing discomfort to avoid irritation. If a wire becomes loose and is poking your cheek, use the back of a spoon or a clean pencil eraser to gently push it back into place.
It’s also a good idea to have our contact information handy. If you experience a serious issue that you can’t manage on your own, give us a call. We can talk you through the steps to take until you can come in for an appointment. Preparing for common issues can make your travels smoother and keep you smiling all summer long.
Caring for your braces during the summer doesn’t have to be a chore. By keeping your braces clean, choosing the right foods, protecting them during sports, and being prepared for emergencies, you can enjoy all the fun and excitement that summer in Redmond has to offer. Each of these tips can help ensure that your braces stay in excellent condition and that your orthodontic treatment stays on track.
Summer is a time for making memories, not worrying about your braces. By following these simple steps, you’ll be able to focus on the fun and keep your braces in top shape. If you ever have any questions or need more advice, we’re here to help.
Ready to get started on your summer with braces? Contact Sullivan Orthodontics’ home of the best orthodontist in Redmond to book an appointment. Our team is ready to support you in keeping your braces and smile in great condition all summer long!