Starting a new school year is exciting, but it also comes with new routines, schedules, and responsibilities. For families with children who wear braces, back-to-school season can feel a little more complicated. Between packing lunches, organizing supplies, and managing after-school activities, parents may wonder how to keep their child’s orthodontic treatment on track during the busy school year.
At Mackenzie Orthodontics, we want to make the transition as smooth as possible. Here are some tips and strategies to help parents and students feel prepared.
Pack an Orthodontic Care Kit
One of the best ways to set your child up for success is by creating a small orthodontic kit they can keep in their backpack. This kit might include:
- A travel-sized toothbrush and toothpaste
- Dental floss or floss threaders
- Orthodontic wax to cover any brackets that cause irritation
- Extra elastics (if they’re part of your child’s treatment)
- A small mirror for quick checks after lunch
Having these tools on hand makes it easier for students to take care of their teeth throughout the day, especially after meals.
Braces-Friendly Foods
School lunches can sometimes pose a challenge for kids with braces. Hard, sticky, or crunchy foods, like popcorn, nuts, or chewy candies, can damage brackets and wires. Encourage brace-friendly options such as:
- Soft fruits like bananas, berries, or sliced apples (without the peel)
- Yogurt or cheese sticks
- Sandwiches on soft bread
- Pasta or rice dishes
- Cut-up veggies with hummus
A little planning goes a long way in preventing broken brackets and emergency visits.
Managing Discomfort at School
It’s not uncommon for braces to cause some mild soreness, especially after adjustments. Packing orthodontic wax can provide quick relief if a bracket or wire irritates the inside of the mouth. For younger children, letting their teacher know about their braces can be helpful, that way, an adult is aware in case your child experiences any discomfort.
Stay on Top of Oral Hygiene
Between homework and after-school activities, busy students may be tempted to skip brushing or flossing. Remind your child that keeping teeth clean is just as important as wearing their braces. Brushing after every meal (or at least twice a day) helps prevent plaque buildup and staining.
Keep Communication Open
Finally, encourage your child to speak up if something doesn’t feel right. A loose bracket, poking wire, or lost elastic is easier to fix when caught early. Remind them it’s okay to ask for help, whether from a parent, a teacher, or directly from our office.
Braces don’t have to make back-to-school season stressful. With a little preparation and some helpful tools, your child can head into the classroom confident and ready to focus on learning.
If your child is starting the school year with braces, we’ll make sure their smile is on track and provide the guidance you need for a smooth transition into the year ahead.