Summer is a time for fun in the sun, relaxation, and making lasting memories with friends and family. But if you’re one of the many people sporting braces, you might be wondering how to make the most of your summer while keeping your orthodontic treatment on track. Don’t worry – with some extra care, you can enjoy all your favorite summer activities without compromising your beautiful smile. Petrunic Orthodontics is excited to share some tips to help you have the best summer possible with braces.
Stick to Your Oral Hygiene Routine
Maintaining good oral hygiene is always important when you have braces, but it’s especially crucial during the summer months. With a more relaxed schedule and plenty of tempting summer treats around, it can be easy to let your brushing and flossing habits slide. However, neglecting your oral hygiene routine can lead to tooth decay, gum disease, and even prolonged orthodontic treatment.
To keep your teeth and braces in tip-top shape, be sure to brush your teeth after every meal and snack. Flossing at least once per day (or as directed by your orthodontist) is also essential for removing plaque and food particles that can get trapped between your teeth and braces. Using an interdental brush or water flosser can help you clean around your braces more effectively while rinsing with a fluoride mouthwash can provide an extra layer of protection against cavities.
By staying on top of your oral hygiene this summer, you’ll help ensure that your orthodontic treatment stays on track and that your smile stays healthy and bright.
Be Mindful of What You Eat and Drink
Summer is a time for ice cream, barbecues, and refreshing beverages, but some popular summer foods and drinks can spell trouble for people with braces. To avoid broken brackets, loose wires, and other orthodontic emergencies, steer clear of hard, crunchy, chewy, and sticky foods that can damage your braces.
Some braces-friendly summer foods to enjoy instead include:
- Soft fruits like bananas, berries, and melons
- Grilled vegetables
- Pasta salads
- Yogurt and smoothies
- Popsicles and ice cream (in moderation)
When it comes to beverages, water is always the best choice for staying hydrated and keeping your teeth clean. Sugary drinks like soda, lemonade, and sports drinks can contribute to tooth decay, so it’s best to limit your consumption or use a straw to minimize contact with your teeth.
Protect Your Mouth During Sports and Activities
If you’re planning to participate in sports or other physical activities this summer, it’s important to protect your mouth and braces from injury. A hit to the face can damage your braces, injure your teeth and gums, and even prolong your orthodontic treatment.
To keep your smile safe, be sure to:
- Wear a mouthguard during contact sports like basketball, soccer, and football.
- Opt for a helmet with a full face mask for activities like biking, skateboarding, and rollerblading.
- Avoid chewing on hard objects like ice, popcorn kernels, and fingernails, which can damage your braces.
If you do experience a mouth injury or orthodontic emergency, contact your orthodontist right away for guidance and treatment.
Keep Your Orthodontic Appointments
Summer is a busy time, but it’s important to keep your regularly scheduled orthodontic appointments to ensure that your treatment stays on track. These appointments allow your orthodontist to monitor your progress, make any necessary adjustments to your braces, and address any concerns you may have.
If you’re traveling this summer, be sure to schedule your appointment before you leave or shortly after you return. Don’t forget to pack all your orthodontic essentials, including a toothbrush, floss, and wax, so you can maintain your oral hygiene routine while you’re away from home. It’s also a good idea to know how to handle common orthodontic emergencies, like loose brackets or poking wires, just in case something happens while you’re traveling.
By keeping your orthodontic appointments and being prepared for any issues that may arise, you can help ensure that your treatment doesn’t fall behind while you’re enjoying your summer adventures.
Embrace Your Smile
Finally, don’t forget to embrace your smile this summer – braces and all! It’s easy to feel self-conscious about your braces, especially when everyone around you seems to have a “perfect” smile. But remember, your braces are a temporary part of your journey to a beautiful, healthy smile that will last a lifetime. So go ahead and smile big for those summer photos, laugh with your friends, and enjoy all the season has to offer.
Smile Your Way Through Summer
Having braces during the summer doesn’t have to put a damper on your fun. By following these tips – sticking to your oral hygiene routine, being mindful of what you drink and eat, protecting your mouth during sports and activities, keeping your orthodontic appointments, and embracing your smile – you can have an enjoyable, healthy summer while staying on track with your orthodontic treatment.
Remember, Dr. Petrunic is always here to support you and answer any questions you may have along the way. So don’t hesitate to reach out if you need guidance or advice this summer. With a little extra care and attention, you can have a summer full of fun, laughter, and progress toward the beautiful smile you deserve.