As summer winds down and backpacks come out of the closet, it’s time to get ready for the school year ahead. For students with braces, going back to school may come with some unique challenges—but with a little preparation, it can also be a smooth and confident start. Whether it’s your first school year with braces or you’re a seasoned pro, these tips will help you stay comfortable, clean, and confident from the first bell to the last.
1. Pack a Braces Care Kit
One of the smartest things you can do is keep a small braces care kit in your backpack or locker. This can include a travel toothbrush, toothpaste, orthodontic wax, floss picks, and a small mirror. Having these items handy allows you to quickly handle food stuck in your braces, relieve poking wires, or freshen up after lunch.
2. Choose Braces-Friendly Lunches
Avoid hard, sticky, and crunchy foods that could damage your braces. Instead, pack braces-safe foods like pasta, yogurt, soft fruits (like bananas or applesauce), cheese, sandwiches on soft bread, or cut-up veggies. If you buy lunch at school, opt for soft foods and avoid items like chips, popcorn, or chewy candy that could cause issues.
3. Stay on Schedule with Oral Hygiene
It’s easy to get caught up in the busy school day and forget to brush or floss. If possible, brush your teeth after lunch, or at least rinse your mouth with water to remove food debris. Keeping a routine helps prevent plaque buildup and keeps your breath fresh throughout the day.
4. Drink Plenty of Water
Water is your best friend during the school day. It helps rinse your mouth, reduces sugar exposure from other drinks, and keeps your mouth hydrated. Skip the soda and sugary juices—they can stain your braces and increase your risk of cavities.
5. Speak Up if Something Feels Off
If a wire starts poking or a bracket comes loose during the day, don’t wait to speak up. Let your school nurse or a teacher know, and contact your orthodontist as soon as you can. Using orthodontic wax can help you stay comfortable until your appointment.
6. Smile with Confidence
Braces are a normal part of growing up, and a great step toward a healthier smile. Don’t be shy about showing yours off! If you’re feeling self-conscious, remember that many of your classmates are probably going through the same thing. Own your braces—they’re part of your journey to a beautiful smile.
Bonus Tip: Keep Up with Appointments
School can get busy fast, but don’t forget your orthodontic appointments. Staying on track with adjustments ensures you’re progressing toward getting your braces off on time. Let your orthodontist know your school schedule so you can book appointments that don’t interfere with important classes or activities.
At Hester and Morris Orthodontics, we want you to head into the school year feeling confident and cared for. If you ever have questions or concerns about your braces, we’re just a call away. Here's to a successful school year—and a straighter, healthier smile along the way!