Moon Orthodontics is all about helping you revolutionize your smile, and today, we’re talking about summer! Dr. Moon and the team are excited to soak up the sun, and we want to make sure you’re armed with the facts you need to have an awesome summer season alongside your orthodontic treatment! Check out these tips for having the best summer with braces!
Tip #1 – Stay Hydrated
Keeping hydrated goes a long way for comfort with braces during the summer. Water helps rinse away food particles and keeps your mouth moist. We recommend keeping a water bottle at hand whether you’re on the beach or hiking a trail
A great way to celebrate the season is to add some flavor infusions like cucumber, strawberry, or mint to make your water more refreshing and fun to drink throughout the day. These natural flavors can level up your drink without adding any harmful sugars that could affect your braces.
Tip #2 – Stay Cool and Comfy
Keep your summer braces care routine cool by always having a soothing gel or wax handy from Dr. Moon. This can really help soothe your mouth after fun summer activities. Remember, comfort with braces is key to enjoying your summer days!
You also might want to think about packing a small care kit with essentials like your soothing gel or wax whenever you head out. That way, no matter where summer takes you, it’s easy to quickly deal with any minor braces discomfort on the spot. This proactive approach to your summer braces care allows you to continue enjoying the summer festivities without missing a beat.
Keep smiling and make every summer day count with confidence!
Tip #3 – Snack Smart
Summer is full of tempting treats, but eating with braces requires smart choices. Stick to braces-friendly summer snacks like soft fruits and light sandwiches. Avoid sticky or hard foods that can harm your braces. Dr. Moon always suggests preparing snacks ahead of time so you can grab and go!
You can add a splash of convenience and variety to your orthodontic diet by exploring recipes that are both delicious and safe for your braces. We love soft choices like smoothies, yogurt parfaits, and soft cheese platters over here!
These options keep your braces safe while offering the necessary nutrition to keep you energized for your summer adventures.
Tip #4 – Brush on the Go
Braces maintenance shouldn’t take a vacation. Pack a travel-sized toothbrush and mirror in your day bag. Whether you’re at a friend’s house or a summer camp, a quick brush after eating helps keep your braces clean and your smile sparkling.
You might want to consider adding a small bottle of mouthwash and interdental brushes to your kit. These are great for those times when brushing isn’t practical.
Regular maintenance, even while on the move, helps keep your braces in perfect condition, no matter where your summer takes you.
Tip #5 – Protect Your Braces
This is a big one! For any summer sports, always wear a mouthguard. This is a non-negotiable part of your braces and summer activities. A good mouthguard protects your braces from damage and your mouth from injuries.
You can make this process easier by choosing a mouthguard that fits comfortably with your braces. It might be worth having a custom mouthguard made if you participate in sports frequently. Not only does this provide better protection, but it also ensures that the mouthguard won’t interfere with your orthodontic progress.
Keep this essential gear in your sports bag so it’s always ready when you are, and you can play as hard as you like without worrying about your braces.
Tip #6 – Prep for Comfort
Invest in some lip balm and mild pain relievers. Summer heat can increase discomfort for those with braces, so being prepared can help alleviate that. These small additions to your braces care tips list can make a big difference.
A good quality lip balm can prevent chapped lips caused by sun exposure and dehydration—a common issue during hotter months. Make sure that you find a lip balm with SPF protection to guard against UV rays.
You might want to consider keeping mild pain relievers on hand, which is also wise for those days when your braces might cause unexpected soreness.
Tip #7 – Explore Soft Food Cuisine
Get creative with your diet and explore new braces-friendly summer recipes. Smoothies, cold soups like gazpacho, and soft grilled meats are great for eating with braces and keeping things interesting at summer gatherings.
Tip #8 – Keep Your Orthodontist in the Loop
Planning summer travel with braces? Be sure to inform Dr. Moon about your plans. He can give you tips specific to your braces care tips for your destination and what to do in case of an emergency.
Tip #9 – Know How to Handle Emergencies
Speaking of emergencies, always have your orthodontist’s contact information accessible. Whether it’s a popped wire or a lost aligner, knowing how to handle these situations is part of your summer braces care toolkit.
Tip #10 – Come and See Us!
We don’t want to take you away from the beach, but let’s make sure those pearly whites stay that way with a free consultation with Moon Orthodontics! With two convenient locations in Olathe and Overland Park, we’re ready and waiting to help you smile bigger this summer!