School’s out for summer—woo-hoo! Although summer is a time to have fun and let loose, it’s important that you maintain your beautiful smile and don’t fall behind on your oral hygiene habits. Read on for our top tips for a healthy, happy summer.
Don’t go overboard on the sugary snacks and drinks.
Summer is a time to let loose, but eating an abundance of sugary items is not healthy. Treat yourself to ice cream and popsicles, but do so in moderation. Then, always brush and floss afterward. If not brushed away, sugary particles can thrive in hard-to-reach places and eat away at your enamel.
Don’t stop your healthy habits just because it’s summer.
Just because you are taking a break from school, it doesn’t mean you can take a break from your healthy habits. You may find it easier to forget brushing and flossing—especially with schedule changes. To prevent poor oral hygiene, set reminders for yourself, keep a checklist, or have friends or family members keep you accountable.
Care for your braces and retainers on vacation!
If you’re away from home, you may find it harder to stick to your oral hygiene routine. That’s why it’s crucial to keep a braces tool kit with you. Be sure to include a travel-sized toothbrush, floss, and orthodontic wax. Don’t forget your retainer and its case. The last thing you want is for your smile to shift while you are far away from our office!
Protect your teeth while playing sports.
We strongly recommend wearing a mouthguard if you choose to play a contact sport, such as football or soccer. Headed on a vacation or to summer camp? Pack along a mouthguard just in case! It’s no fun to skip activities because you forgot protective gear.
Be compliant with treatment.
We know schedules are hectic in the summer, but remember to be compliant with your treatment. This includes: using appliances properly, wearing aligners for 20 or more hours a day, wearing your retainer as instructed, skipping non-braces-friendly foods, and coming in for your orthodontic appointments. Following our instructions will ensure that your treatment is comfortable, efficient, and healthy.
Getaways and trips
Pack what you need for a healthy smile when you go on a summer getaway, whether on vacation or off to a summer camp. Poor oral hygiene could lead to cavities, discoloration, or more time wearing your braces or aligners. Be extra mindful of packing these tools if you’re going off the grid! Not bringing your aligners or retainer with you, for example, could mean starting over from scratch when you return home.
- Floss and floss threaders
- Toothbrush
- Sports mouthguard
- Orthodontic wax to prevent discomfort
- Aligners or retainers in their case
What summer treats can you enjoy?
Summer comes with a lot of tasty seasonal foods! If you have braces, there’s no need to worry. You can still enjoy plenty of soft treats, like popsicles, ice cream, smoothies, or watermelon (be careful with seeds!). Always avoid sticky, hard foods, such as corn on the cob, caramel corn, or hard pretzels. If you wear Invisalign®, you have a few more food options since you can take out your aligners. However, regardless of your appliances, keep brushing and flossing for a healthy, plaque-free smile!
Orthodontic care for outdoor activities
Protect yourself if you like to spend your days soaking up the sun! Apply sunscreen to your face and wear an SPF lip balm. While playing sports, you should always wear a mouthguard to protect your teeth, lips, cheeks, tongue, and appliances. Though usually preventable with a mouthguard, mouth injuries can seriously cost you—from missing teeth and high medical bills to broken appliances and lots of discomfort.
Have a healthy summer!
We hope you enjoy your time off from school and the beautiful weather. As tempting as it may be, don’t sacrifice your healthy smile amid all the fun! If you have any questions or are ready to book your free consultation appointment, contact us today!