Summer is finally upon us, and if you’re currently wearing braces, that’s actually something to be excited about! Beyond the backyard cookouts, beach trips, and summer sports, you’re also working toward a straighter and healthier smile. That said, you might be worried about how the season could impact your braces journey. With a little planning and a few simple habits, you can fully enjoy everything the season has to offer without setting back your orthodontic treatment.
Be Mindful of Summer Foods
One of the best parts of summer is the food, and luckily, many of the season’s most popular snacks are braces-friendly. Watermelon, sliced strawberries, blueberries, yogurt, smoothies, and grilled vegetables are all excellent choices that are easy on your brackets and wires.
That said, there are a few summer staples to steer clear of. Corn on the cob is off-limits, since it can bend wires and pop brackets right off. Instead, just cut the kernels off the cob and enjoy the same great flavor. Sticky candies, caramel, hard ice cubes, and crunchy snacks like chips and popcorn should also be avoided. And when you’re cooling off with an iced drink, resist the urge to crunch on the ice cubes!
Stay Safe During Summer Sports
Summer is prime time for all kinds of outdoor activities, including swimming, basketball, soccer, pool volleyball, skateboarding, baseball, and many more. The most important thing to keep in mind is wearing a mouthguard during any contact sport or activity where there’s a risk of getting hit in the face. A properly fitted mouthguard protects both your teeth and your orthodontic appliances from damage that could set your treatment back.
Keep Up with Your Oral Hygiene
Summer has a way of shaking up routines, but staying consistent with your oral hygiene is one of the most important things you can do to keep your treatment on track. Aim to brush after every meal and floss daily. If you’re out and about and can’t brush right after eating, at a minimum, rinse your mouth thoroughly with water to dislodge any food particles sitting around your brackets.
This also extends to when you’re away from home! Before you leave, put together a small travel kit that includes your toothbrush, fluoride toothpaste, floss threaders or an orthodontic flosser, orthodontic wax, and a small mirror. These items make it easy to maintain your routine no matter where you are.
Summer and braces are perfectly manageable with the right approach; just stick to your routine and make smart choices, and you’ll head into fall with your treatment right on track!
About the Practice
Our team here at Milton Orthodontics has proudly served patients in Milton and the nearby communities for several years, offering a wide range of orthodontic treatments for patients of all ages. Whether you have a teen who’s ready for braces, or you’re looking for smile-straightening solutions yourself, we’re ready to help! If you have any questions about the blog or you’re ready to schedule an appointment for yourself or a loved one, you can call or reach out online for more information. Telephone: (617) 698-8883.
