Smile Smart This Semester With Our Braces Guide
As the new school year approaches, there’s a lot to think about: school supplies, new clothes, class schedules, and for many students, taking care of their braces. Whether your child is starting treatment or has been wearing braces in Sylvania for a while, a smooth transition into the school year starts with preparation. At HLH Orthodontics in Sylvania, we want to make sure every student wearing braces heads back to class with the confidence, tools, and knowledge they need to succeed.
This back-to-school braces checklist will help you or your child stay on track throughout the semester. Let’s make this school year a great one for grades and smiles!
1. Schedule a Pre-School-Year Orthodontic Checkup
Before the school year starts, it’s a great idea to schedule a checkup at HLH Orthodontics. We can ensure everything is progressing as it should, answer any questions, and make adjustments if needed. This proactive step can prevent interruptions during the semester and give parents peace of mind. If your child is new to braces in Sylvania, this is also a perfect time to review school-friendly habits and ask us how to handle emergencies or soreness while at school.
2. Pack a Braces Care Kit for School
One of the best ways to care for braces in Sylvania while at school is to carry a small braces kit in a backpack or locker. Here’s what to include:
- A travel toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste
- Floss or floss picks
- Orthodontic wax
- Extra rubber bands (if prescribed)
- A compact mirror
- A small bottle of mouthwash or water for rinsing
- A container to safely store aligners if using Invisalign
Having this kit handy makes it easier to maintain oral hygiene and handle discomfort or a poking wire during the school day.
3. Review the Do’s and Don’ts of the School Cafeteria
When it comes to wearing braces in Sylvania, food choices matter. Sticky, crunchy, or hard foods can break wires or damage brackets. Encourage your child to avoid items like:
- Popcorn
- Hard pretzels
- Nuts
- Sticky candies
- Raw carrots and apples (unless cut into small pieces)
Instead, choose softer foods that are braces-friendly: sandwiches, pasta, soft fruits, yogurt, mashed potatoes, rice, and steamed vegetables.
4. Practice Good Hygiene Between Classes
It can be easy to forget about brushing after lunch when you’re rushing to your next class. But food particles can get trapped in brackets and wires, increasing the risk of plaque buildup and cavities. Even if your child can’t brush during the school day, encourage them to at least rinse with water after eating and use their braces kit to clean out food debris as needed. Maintaining clean teeth helps avoid delays in treatment and ensures a beautiful smile once the braces come off.
5. Stay Hydrated
Drinking plenty of water throughout the day helps flush food particles away and keeps your mouth clean. Skip sugary drinks like soda and sports drinks, which can lead to enamel damage around brackets and make oral hygiene more difficult. If your child has Invisalign aligners, remind them to remove the aligners before drinking anything besides plain water and to brush or rinse before putting them back in.
6. Prepare for the Unexpected
Even with the best care, accidents can happen. A wire may come loose, a bracket may pop off, or a sore spot might develop. Talk to your child about how to handle minor orthodontic issues at school. Here are a few quick tips:
- Use orthodontic wax to cover a poking wire or irritated area
- Contact HLH Orthodontics if a bracket comes off or something feels wrong
- Keep aligners in their case when not in use to avoid damage or loss
Remind your child not to try fixing anything themselves — call our Sylvania office, and we’ll help you take the next step.
7. Encourage Confidence and Positivity
Wearing braces in Sylvania is a big change, especially during school years. Kids may feel self-conscious or worried about how others perceive them. Remind your child that braces are a common and positive part of achieving a healthy, beautiful smile. Many of their peers are likely going through the same experience. Whether they have metal braces, clear braces, or aligners, they’re on the path to a lifelong benefit — and that’s something to feel great about!
8. Communicate with Teachers and Coaches
Let your child’s teachers, school nurse, or sports coaches know about their orthodontic treatment. In case of discomfort or an emergency, they’ll be prepared to help or provide a few minutes for the student to use their braces kit. If your child plays contact sports, be sure they wear a protective mouthguard. HLH Orthodontics can help you find one that fits comfortably over braces.
Get the Best Support for Braces in Sylvania
At HLH Orthodontics, we’re committed to helping students succeed in school and in their orthodontic journey. From traditional braces to clear braces and Invisalign, we provide the support families need to make treatment seamless — even during the busiest school season. If you’re searching for help with braces in Sylvania, we’re here for you. Schedule a back-to-school checkup today and make sure your child’s smile is ready to shine all year long.