As the new school year approaches, many students are returning to class with a little extra hardware: braces. Whether it’s your child’s first week in treatment or they’re already a few months in, going back to school with braces doesn’t have to be stressful. At Stavisky Orthodontics, we’re here to help your child feel confident, prepared, and comfortable from the classroom to the lunchroom.
Here are some helpful tips for a smooth start to the school year:
Pack a Braces Care Kit
Keep a small braces care kit in your child’s backpack or locker with the following essentials:
- Orthodontic wax (for poking wires)
- A travel toothbrush and toothpaste
- Floss threaders or orthodontic flossers
- A small mirror
- Extra rubber bands (if needed)
- A compact mouth rinse
Having these tools on hand helps your child stay comfortable and keep their braces clean throughout the school day.
Choose Braces-Friendly Lunches
Some school lunch options may be tough on braces. Encourage your child to avoid hard, sticky, or crunchy foods like:
- Chips
- Hard pretzels
- Sticky granola bars
- Nuts
- Chewy candies
Instead, pack soft, easy-to-chew foods such as:
- Pasta or soft sandwiches
- Yogurt and applesauce
- Bananas or cut-up fruit
- Cheese sticks
- Soft granola or protein bars
Pro tip: cut fruits and veggies into small, bite-sized pieces so they’re easier to eat with braces.
Hydrate Often
Sipping water throughout the day helps rinse away food particles and keeps braces cleaner between brushings. Encourage your child to carry a refillable water bottle to school.
Speak Up Early
If something feels off—like a poking wire or a loose bracket—encourage your child to let a teacher or school nurse know, then call our office. The sooner we fix the issue, the more comfortable your child will be.
Keep Up with Appointments
School schedules get busy fast, but it’s important to stick to your child’s regular orthodontic visits. We offer flexible scheduling and will do our best to find times that work for your family.
Remind Them: Braces Are Temporary, but the Smile Is Forever
Some kids feel a little self-conscious starting the school year with braces. A quick reminder that braces are just a short step toward a confident, healthy smile can go a long way. And hey—lots of classmates are probably wearing them, too!
Heading Off to College with Braces
For students leaving home for college, a little extra planning can go a long way in keeping treatment on track. Here are some key tips:
- Pack a full braces care kit and make sure they know how to use everything in it.
- Help them find a local orthodontist near campus in case of emergencies.
- Encourage them to stay consistent with rubber bands and hygiene, even with a busy schedule.
- Set reminders to attend regular appointments if they’re continuing care with us over breaks.
- Keep communication open—we’re happy to provide virtual support or guidance if any issues come up between visits.
With a little preparation, college students can stay on top of their orthodontic care and focus on what matters most: thriving in their new environment.
