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Back to School with Braces
Our team at WGM Orthodontics is proud to help our patients living across Kentucky achieve their most remarkable smiles by providing them with the high quality orthodontic care they deserve! Whether you’re looking for an orthodontist in Louisville or Southern Kentucky, there’s sure to be one of our offices near you. We offer early treatment options, as well as, many other services to help your smile.
Many of our school-ages patients wearing braces will soon be heading back to the classroom. Managing braces while at school can be an inconvenience, but don’t worry, we’re here to help! Below are some helpful tips that can make the transition back to school go smoothly.
Pack Braces-Friendly Lunches
It’s important to steer clear of hard, sticky and gooey foods as they that can damage your braces. Foods being served at school are not always braces friendly. For these days, we suggest you pack your own lunch that consists of braces friendly foods. These foods may include pasta dishes, hot dogs and salads. There are plenty of foods available at your grocery store that are perfect to eat during treatment, so take your time when shopping so you can find some you like.
Take Along a Braces Care Kit
It’s super important that you always do a great job of brushing and flossing while you’re wearing braces, including the hours you spend at school. This is why we encourage you to take along a small zippered pouch containing all the items you need to maintain good oral hygiene like your toothbrush, toothpaste and floss. When you’re done eating lunch, just step inside a restroom so you can clean your teeth and braces.
Don’t Forget the Wax
It’s common for a part of your braces to cause irritation on the inside of your cheeks like a poking wire or rubbing bracket. This is why you should be sure to have some orthodontic wax with you so you can place some on the part that is bothering you.
Always Wear a Protective Mouthguard
If you’re planning on playing a sport in school, it’s important that you protect your mouth, teeth and braces from harm by wearing a protective mouthguard. You can a find sports mouthguard, made specifically for people wearing brae, at some sporting goods stores or online. Brands to watch for include ShockDoctor and UnderArmour. Just be sure the mouthguard you choose fits comfortably over your braces and teeth and allows for easy breathing.
Carry Some Extra Elastics
If you’re wearing those tiny little rubber bands called elastics on your braces, you know that they can easily pop off and get stretched out. That is why you should always have a few extra along with you so you can replace any that lose their elasticity or break.
Questions? Contact Us!
If you have any questions about your treatment or need more tips on how to make a smooth transition back to school with braces, just contact us at any of our locations and we’ll help! Enjoy what’s left of your summer vacation and good luck in the upcoming school year.