Summer is just around the corner, and it’s the perfect time for fun, relaxation, and making the most of the warm weather! At SmileOn Orthodontics, Doc Ak and the SmileOntourage are here to ensure that managing your braces this season is completely hassle-free.
Let’s start with the best foods to enjoy and those to avoid, ensuring your braces stay in perfect condition while you indulge in Summer treats.
Summer Snacking with Braces
The Summer season brings with it a bounty of fresh fruits, outdoor barbecues, and sweet treats, all of which can be tempting but tricky when you’re wearing braces.
Focus on enjoying soft fruits like watermelon and berries, which are easy on your braces and refreshing during the hot weather. Soft cheeses and tender grilled meats are also great choices that won’t jeopardize your brackets and wires. On the flip side, it’s best to steer clear of hard, sticky, or crunchy foods like corn on the cob, hard pretzels, and taffy that can damage your braces and disrupt your progress.
In addition to choosing the right foods, it’s important to know how to protect your braces during active Summer pastimes. Let’s explore how to keep your smile safe and your braces intact while you enjoy all your favorite Summer sports and activities.
Outdoor Activities and Protecting Your Braces
Summertime is prime time for fun outdoor activities, from soccer games to family hikes. Doc Ak advises wearing a protective mouthguard during heavy physical activities to safeguard your braces, teeth, and face from potential impacts. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Sports and Safety Always wear a protective mouthguard during:
- Team sports like soccer or basketball.
- Adventure activities like mountain biking or rock climbing.
- Swimming Considerations After swimming, remember to:
- Rinse your mouth with fresh water to reduce the effects of chlorine on your braces.
As you plan your Summer adventures, remember that maintaining good oral hygiene, especially while on the move, is crucial for keeping your braces in top shape. Next, let’s dive into the best practices for managing oral hygiene on the go, ensuring your Summer smiles are sparkling.
Managing Oral Hygiene On the Go
Keeping your braces clean while enjoying Summer excursions can be a breeze with a little preparation. Doc Ak and the SmileOntourage recommend assembling a portable care kit for your travels. Here’s what to include:
- Essential Tools for Travel:
- A travel-size toothbrush and toothpaste.
- Platypus Flossers
- Orthodontic wax or OrthoDots to soothe any irritation from brackets rubbing against your cheeks
- A small mirror to check if food particles are caught in your braces
- Quick Cleaning Tips:
- Use water to swiftly rinse your mouth if brushing isn’t possible immediately after eating
- Chewing sugar-free gum can help remove food particles and increase saliva production, which naturally cleanses the teeth
Staying diligent with these simple hygiene practices can make a big difference in your oral health and comfort during the Summer. While focusing on your dental care, don’t forget that the heat can affect more than just your mood—it can also impact your oral environment. Let’s discuss how to stay comfortable and handle minor oral swelling during those hot Summer days.
Staying Comfortable in the Heat
Summer heat can occasionally lead to slight swelling in your mouth and gums, particularly while undergoing orthodontic treatment. Doc Ak and the SmileOntourage have some useful tips to help you stay comfortable and manage these minor changes effectively:
- Dealing with Swelling:
- Sip on cold water throughout the day to keep your mouth cool and reduce swelling.
- Apply a cold compress externally to your cheeks if swelling becomes noticeable.
- Hydration:
- Drinking plenty of fluids not only keeps you hydrated but also promotes a healthier oral environment by rinsing away food particles and bacteria.
Keeping cool and hydrated will ensure your braces don’t become a nuisance during Summer activities. Beyond keeping cool, it’s also important to consider how to care for your braces while traveling. Let’s explore how to keep your orthodontic treatment on track even when you’re away from home.
Braces Care While Traveling
Traveling during the Summer can bring unexpected challenges, especially when you’re wearing braces. Here are some strategies for managing your braces while away from home:
- Pre-trip Check-ups:
- Schedule a visit to SmileOn Orthodontics before any extended trips to ensure everything is aligned and secure with your braces.
- Emergency Prep:
- Pack a detailed orthodontic care kit, including extra orthodontic wax, a spare set of aligners (if you use them), and emergency contact information for SmileOn.
- Know the basics of fixing minor issues, like applying wax to a protruding wire or reattaching a loose bracket with orthodontic wax.
Enjoying the Break and Planning for Adjustments
As your Summer adventures come to a close, it’s also important to think ahead about your orthodontic goals and upcoming appointments. Doc Ak and the SmileOntourage recommend the following:
- Schedule Adjustments: If it’s been awhile since you’ve been in the office for a visit due to your Summer schedule, give us a call so we can schedule a check with the team.
- Goals and Progress: Review your treatment progress with Doc Ak, and set realistic goals for the coming months.
Smiling On Through Every Season
At SmileOn Orthodontics in Cedar Park, we’re here to support your orthodontic needs through every season. Doc Ak and the SmileOntourage are committed to ensuring you receive the absolute best orthodontic care possible. Considering orthodontics for yourself or a loved one? Schedule your complimentary Smile Assessment today and see how we can help you maintain a happy, healthy smile all year round!
