You’re not quite sure how it’s going to be when you walk through the halls of your school sporting some new braces in your mouth. How will your classmates react? Will you be able to take care of your braces properly? Whether you’re just getting braces for the first time or you’re a seasoned veteran with braces, going back to school can cause a bit of anxiety in anyone, and taking good care of your braces while you’re there is important. So, when it comes to going back to school with braces, how do you keep up with all of your responsibilities? Don’t sweat it…you’ve got this.
Be Prepared
It’s important to pack the essentials when going back to school to ensure you can take proper care of your braces while you’re not at home. Pack a small travel kit in your backpack that includes the following:
- Toothbrush and toothpaste
- Floss
- Mouthwash
- Orthodontic wax
- Mirror
Have this kit at the ready so you can clean your teeth after meals. It’s also a good idea to carry a water bottle to rinse out your mouth and prevent bacteria from building up on your teeth and gums. Just a couple little items will go a long way during the school day.
Pack the Proper Foods
Your orthodontist has made it quite clear that there are certain foods to avoidnow that you have braces, and that’s why it’s important to pack a lunch or snack that adheres to those rules. Avoid chewy foods, nuts, tough bread and other foods that can harm to your braces. Pack foods that are nutritious and can be easily eaten so you stay healthy and your braces remain intact.
Keep Extracurriculars in Mind
If you’re involved in sports, your old mouthguard isn’t going to cut it anymore. Now that you have braces, you’ll need a mouthguard designed especially for braces. Keep this in mind before you start back to school and have a mouthguard fitted and ready, so you don’t have to sit out while the other kids get to play. It’s also important to stay safe in gym class. It only takes a split second for someone to accidentally bump into you during a game of basketball and damage your braces. Be careful and be sure to wear adequate protection.
Stay Positive
Whether you’re just starting out on your journey with braces or if you’re had them for a while now, it’s always important to remain positive. You’re on your way to achieving perfect teeth, which can last you the rest of your life if follow your orthodontist’s instructions. A little time now can affect you for a long time later. Just know you’re not alone in this. Other kids will be going through the same thing, so you can support each other.
Back to School and Your Braces
Going back to school can be exciting and a little bit stressful. You’ll be seeing some fellow students you haven’t seen all summer and you’ll be learning more and growing every day. Take the stress out going back to school with braces by being prepared and following your orthodontist’s directions.
The professionals at Charleston Orthodontic Specialists can help you go back to school with confidence! Call (843) 4-BRACES to learn more about us and to get started on your journey to a spectacular smile.
