With summer just around the corner, soon many of our patients will be going to summer camp, taking family vacations or just spending time outside having fun! Summer is also the time when there are some special foods being served at family reunions and barbecues with friends. To make sure those of you wearing braces can fully enjoy all the fun, Dr. Kattner and his team have put together this braces care guide for summertime. By following these tips, you should be able to enjoy your summer without running into any problems with your braces.Plan Ahead with a Braces Care Kit
When you start packing your bags to head off to summer camp or vacation, be sure to plan ahead so you have everything you need to take care of your braces and to keep them safe. We suggest putting together a braces care kit that you can take along with you. Just fill a small zippered pouch or a plastic container with everything you'll need to maintain your braces and good oral hygiene including:
- Toothbrush and toothpaste
- Floss
- Floss picks
- Mouthwash
- Orthodontic wax
- Small handheld mirror
It's also a good idea to take our contact information along with you, just in case you need to get in touch with us if you run into a problem with your braces.
Maintain Your Oral Hygiene Routine
We know that it's easy to forget all about maintaining good oral hygiene when you're spending the day at the beach working on your tan or when you're out exploring a new city on vacation. However, it's crucial that you stick with your oral hygiene routine to keep your mouth clean and healthy. Try to brush and floss your teeth at the same time everyday to keep your oral hygiene on track.
Be Mindful of What You Can and Can't Eat
There are lots of great summer foods and treats to enjoy like grilled meats, corn-on-the-cob, and all kinds of yummy salads and desserts. However, you must avoid eating braces-busting foods so you don't have to take time out of all the fun you're having to come and visit us to get your braces fixed. Just remember to steer clear of hard, sticky and chewy foods. If you're not sure if you can eat something, it's best to skip it and choose something you know you can safely eat with braces.
Always Carry a Mouthguard with You
Whether you'll be hitting the local skateboard park, catching that epic wave, or playing soccer in the summer league, be sure to always have a protective mouthguard with you! This way, you can just pop your mouthguard in and have all the fun you want without any worries about harming your teeth or braces.
Have Fun!
The team at Kattner Orthodontics wants you to enjoy the summer so please keep this braces care guide in mind so nothing spoils your summertime fun! We're just a phone call away so please don't hesitate to give us a call at (847) 244-7900 if you have any questions or run into a problem with your braces!