Back to School Tips for a Trouble-Free School Year

The start of the school year should be an enjoyable time for the entire family. Your child is eager to learn and you’re eager to enjoy a less chaotic daily schedule. But following a routine with their braces is really important. Here’s some back to school braces tips and tricks to make for an enjoyable school year.

1. Keep a Consistent Oral Hygiene Routine

There’s no doubt getting back in the habit of routine can be tricky, especially after a couple months of freedom. But sticking with a consistent oral hygiene routine is crucial for your child’s health and to straighten their teeth faster. As the schedule picks up, be sure your child stays on top of their oral hygiene. Keep a consistent routine. This will help avoid tooth decay and other dental problems in the future. It’s important to step up your oral hygiene routine when you have braces. That means brush your teeth after meals, keep travel toothbrushes in their backpack, and brush and floss twice a day.

2. Stay on Top of Orthodontic Visits

When extracurricular activities and homework kicks in, be sure to stay on top of going to regularly schedule orthodontist visits. This is crucial to the success of your child’s treatment.

3. Stay Away from Foods That Could Damage Your Braces

Some foods should be avoided while wearing braces. Hard, sticky, and chewy foods can damage your wires and brackets. Stick to softer foods. Keep an eye on what your children are eating. If you have questions about foods, ask your orthodontic team.

4. Importance of Maintenance

It’s exciting when your child completes their orthodontic treatment. But don’t let the excitement and the busyness of school get you off track. Once your child reaches their orthodontic goal, it’s important not to skip the RENTENTION stage. Be sure your child wears their retainer. Since most kids take their retainer out while eating, be sure they have a routine for what to do when they take their retainer out. A number of patients lose their retainers because they wrap them in a napkin and accidentally throw them away. Help your child get into a routine where they consistently wear their retainers but also put it in the right place when they aren’t wearing them.

Getting into a routine when your child goes back to school can be challenging. These back to school braces tips will help you get the most of your child’s treatment and stay on track for a successful outcome.