With summer growing to an all-too-soon close, now would be the perfect time for you to discuss proper dental care during the school day with your children who are wearing braces. This is especially important for children who are going to school for the first time with braces.
Fortunately, wearing braces at school doesn’t have to be a hardship. With just a little effort and care, your children can do their part to make sure their smile is as healthy as possible.
Here are a few quick tips your child can use to get through the school day smiling:
Talk to your dentist:
Braces can be a scary commitment for children, but they do not have to be. Ask your dentist about the proper daily care for your braces. Make sure you understand proper brushing and flossing techniques that you should be doing to get the most out of your braces, and find out what foods you should eat — or avoid — for the best dental health. Remember, if you take care of your braces, they will take care of you.
Be prepared:
Put together a small kit of items you will need during the school day to take care of you braces. This should include a toothbrush, toothpaste, and spare rubber bands. Also, if you are required to wear a retainer, make sure your kit includes your retainer case so that you can safely store it during lunch. Never simply wrap your retainer in a napkin during lunch. Far too many retainers to count have been accidentally thrown away this way. Your items should fit neatly in a pencil case, or you can use any small bag or case that you prefer.
Be careful:
If you regularly take part in a physical education class, sports, or other activities such as cheering, ask your dentist about a mouthguard. This will protect your braces and teeth from any errant balls, elbows, or other blows to the mouth that can damage your braces and your teeth.
Be smart:
Remember, the same rules you have about avoiding unhealthy, sugary, or sweet snacks at home also apply at school. Eat smart, and avoid any foods or snacks that may get stuck in your braces or damage them. Be aware that some foods on the school lunch menu may be poor choices for someone with braces and plan according.
Follow these tips, and your child will reap the lifelong benefits of a beautiful smile.
At Farmington Dental and Orthodontics, we put our patients first. Dr. Gavin Trogdon and Dr. Brittany Stroope specialize in dental care for the entire family.
Contact us if you need more information on the proper care of braces.
