Now that you have conquered getting your braces it’s time to navigate your newest accessory for when you go back to school! These tips will ensure that you have a relaxed and easy school year… at least relaxed and easy about your braces!

1. Have A Braces-Friendly Kit

Make sure before you start school that you create a braces-friendly kit that you can keep in your backpack or locker! One of the best ways to be prepared for any braces emergency is to have this kit with you! Here are some of our favorites to keep in our braces-friendly kit:

• Orthodontic Wax: This type of wax is best when you have braces because it can help prevent irritation from the brackets and wires. All you need to do is apply a small piece to any part of your braces that feels uncomfortable.
• Travel Toothbrush & Toothpaste: Having these in your braces-friendly kit will be the best way to keep your smile fresh after lunch! By brushing your teeth at school you can prevent food from getting stuck in your braces and keep your breath minty fresh.
• Floss Picks or Interdental Brushes: If you do not have the time to brush your teeth at school, floss picks or interdental brushes are your next great option.
• Lip Balm: Having braces can sometimes make your lips feel dry, so that is why we suggest having lip balm handy. Don’t forget to ask your Imagine Orthodontic Team for some lip balm to put into your braces-friendly back-to-school kit!
• Compact Mirror: This is the perfect, quick way to check after meals to see if you have any food stuck in your braces!

2. Embrace Soft Foods

Another item that might need adjustment from your normal back-to-school routine is changing your lunch! We suggest sticking to soft foods that won’t put too much pressure on your braces. Although it may take some adjusting, we suggest foods like yogurt, applesauce, soft sandwiches, and smoothies. Make sure to avoid the crunchy or sticky foods in the lunch lines. Foods to avoid would be popcorn, chips, and gum – these foods can damage your brackets or even get stuck!

3. Stay Hydrated

Another thing that is essential to have when you have braces is a water bottle! Whether it is a Stanley, an Owala, or a plain old reliable water bottle drinking water with braces is important to keep your mouth clean. Drinking Water can help to wash away food particles that may get stuck in your braces. Plus staying hydrated can help to reduce things like dry mouth, which can sometimes happen with braces.

4. Smile With Confidence

This is the most simple yet overlooked tip that we can offer kids and teens going back to school with braces! Your braces are helping you achieve your perfect smile so wear them with pride!

As you head back to school, why not start your journey to a perfect smile with Imagine Orthodontic Studio? Book your free consultation at one of our five Florida locations today! Let’s make this school year the best one yet – with a smile that lights up every room!