BURIEN
WEST SEATTLE
September 1, 2016
Back To School Orthodontic Reminders
Now that the 2016-17 school year is right around the corner, many of the patients we see at our Burien and West Seattle orthodontic offices will be heading back to the classroom. Making the transition from summer time fun and freedom to the structured environment of school can be challenging, and even more so if you are heading back to school wearing braces. Here are a few friendly reminders that can make it easier to adjust to wearing braces while at school!
It is really tempting to head to the nearest vending machine at break time to grab a sticky candy bar. That’s why you should always make sure that you have some braces-friendly snacks on hand that won’t bust your braces. It’s a good idea to pack your own snacks like cut up soft fruits, yogurt, grapes or applesauce so you don’t give in to the temptation of eating something you shouldn’t.
It can be easy to forget all about your oral hygiene when you’re so busy with school. But you need to brush your teeth after lunch to help protect your teeth from decay. Therefore, be sure to carry your toothbrush and toothpaste along with you so you can duck into a bathroom after eating to brush and floss. it’s also a good idea to take along some dental wax just in case a part of your braces causes you irritation like a poking wire.
You should always wear a protective mouthguard that fits over your braces whenever you play sports or take part in any activity that puts you at risk for a facial or mouth injury. Every morning before heading out the door, make sure your mouthguard is packed in your bag or backpack so you can pop it when you’re gearing up to hit the field or court.
Even though your schedule will be filled with classes, sports and free-time activities of all types, you still need to make sure you come to all your adjustment appointments. These appointments are key to keeping your treatment on track. If something unexpected happens and you absolutely must miss an appointment, call our office right away so we can reschedule.
Dr. Peralta and his amazing Seattle orthodontics team at Peralta Orthodontics would like to wish all our school-aged patients the best of luck in the upcoming school year! We hope these tips come in helpful for adjusting to wearing braces while in school. Just remember that before you know it, your braces will come off to reveal the straight, beautiful and healthy smile you’ve been dreaming of!
