Now that summer is winding down, many of our patients will be heading back to the classroom to begin the brand new school year. The orthodontic students and faculty at UNLV Orthodontic Clinic wish all our school-aged patients good luck in the upcoming academic year! We also would like to offer some helpful back-to-school tips for those of you wearing braces. We want the time you spend in braces to be an enjoyable, trouble-free time. Plus we know that it can be hard to get back into the swing of being in school and following a set schedule.
Perfect Your Oral Hygiene Routine
Back to school is the time of the year when you should be taking your oral hygiene routine up a notch. Now that you have a structured schedule to keep, always try to brush your teeth after meals. While at school, carry along a little pouch containing a toothbrush, small tube of toothpaste and floss. Then when you're finished with lunch, you can duck into the bathroom to brush and floss your teeth. Maintaining good oral hygiene while in braces will help prevent tooth day and other dental problems that can delay your treatment and pose a threat to your oral health.
Take Good Care of Your Retainer
If you're in the retention stage of your orthodontic treatment, you're wearing a retainer. Because so many retainers are lost at school or tossed into the trash by mistake, it's important to take good care of your retainer. Instead of taking your retainer out at lunchtime and wrapping it in a napkin, put in into it's case instead. This way, you won't lose your retainer nor have to pay to have a new one made.
Visit Your Las Vegas Orthodontist on a Regular Basis
As an orthodontic patient, you will need to see your Las Vegas orthodontist every 5 to 10 weeks. These appointments are very important as your progress needs to be checked. And if you're wearing conventional braces that are permanently affixed to your teeth for the duration of your treatment, regular adjustments must be made to your appliances. This is why it's essential that you don't miss any of these appointments. It's easy to keep track of your appointments with your smartphone or by using a small pocket calendar book.
Stay Away from Those Food Items that Can Damage or Break Your Braces
If you're wearing conventional braces, you were told how important it is to steer clear of hard, crunchy, chewy, gooey and sticky foods and snacks. These are the types of foods that can damage or break your braces. If you take your lunch to school, remember that many food items like sandwiches and soft fruits can be cut into small pieces making them easier to eat.
Going back to school with braces will be easier and much more pleasant when you follow these easy tips. If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to contact us as we're always happy to speak with you!