Back to School Tips From Your PA Orthodontist
Keeping Orthodontic Treatment on Track With School in Session
As the school year kicks off, it’s not just about new backpacks, fresh notebooks, and sharpened pencils — it’s also a time to reestablish healthy routines, especially when it comes to orthodontic care. Whether your child just got braces or is already mid-treatment, going back to school with orthodontic appliances requires a little preparation. As your trusted PA orthodontist, we’ve gathered practical advice to help students maintain their oral health and stay on track with their treatment goals throughout the academic year.
At our practice, we specialize in family orthodontics Langhorne patients can count on. If your child is heading into a new grade with braces, these tips will help make the transition smooth and successful.
Pack a Braces-Friendly Lunch
One of the most important back-to-school tips for orthodontic patients is preparing meals that are safe for braces. Crunchy, hard, or sticky foods can damage wires and brackets, potentially delaying treatment. Encourage your child to pack soft, nutritious options such as:
- Yogurt or cottage cheese
- Soft fruits like bananas or applesauce
- Sandwiches on soft bread (avoid crusty rolls)
- Pasta salads
- Cheese cubes or string cheese
- Soft granola bars (without nuts or caramel)
If your child buys lunch at school, review the menu together and help them identify safe options. Having a braces-friendly lunch plan can prevent discomfort and emergencies during school hours.
Keep a Braces Care Kit in the Backpack
One of the best habits a student with braces can develop is carrying a small care kit for school. Your PA orthodontist recommends including these essentials:
- A soft-bristled travel toothbrush
- Travel-size toothpaste
- Dental floss or orthodontic flossers
- Orthodontic wax (for poking wires or irritation)
- A small mirror for quick checks
- Extra rubber bands, if prescribed
- A compact case for removable appliances like aligners or retainers
Having these tools on hand can help your child handle unexpected discomfort, maintain good hygiene after lunch, and stay compliant with their treatment plan.
Stay Consistent With Oral Hygiene
It’s easy for students to become distracted during the school day, especially with busy schedules and extracurriculars. However, maintaining excellent oral hygiene is more important than ever during orthodontic treatment. Encourage your child to:
- Brush after lunch, if possible
- Drink plenty of water throughout the day
- Avoid sugary drinks like soda and juice
- Use fluoride rinse at home
- Replace toothbrushes regularly, especially if bristles become worn from braces
Consistent care can prevent cavities, gum irritation, and staining — keeping their treatment on track and their smile looking great.
Follow the Rules for Orthodontic Appliances
Whether your child wears braces or clear aligners, following your PA orthodontist’s guidelines is crucial. With clear aligners like Invisalign, students must be especially careful to wear them 20 to 22 hours per day. That means removing them only to eat, drink (except water), and brush. Remind your child to:
- Store aligners in their case when not in use (not in a napkin or lunchbox)
- Keep track of wear time each day
- Change to new aligners as instructed
- Follow elastic band instructions, if applicable
For students with braces, remind them to wear any prescribed rubber bands and to avoid habits like pencil-chewing or fingernail-biting, which can damage brackets and wires.
Know What to Do in an Orthodontic Emergency
Sometimes, despite your best efforts, a bracket might come loose or a wire might poke the inside of the cheek. Students should know how to respond calmly and responsibly. Encourage your child to:
- Use orthodontic wax to cover sharp wires
- Avoid touching or pulling on loose brackets
- Visit the nurse if they’re in pain or need help
- Call your PA orthodontist as soon as possible to schedule a repair appointment
Reinforce that these situations are fixable and not a reason to panic. The sooner they’re addressed, the better the outcome.
Communicate With Teachers and Coaches
For students involved in band, sports, or drama, orthodontic appliances can take some getting used to. Letting teachers and coaches know about the treatment can help everyone work together to ensure comfort and safety. For example:
- Students in band may need to adjust their playing technique
- Athletes should always wear a mouthguard during practice and games
- Drama students might need extra time to adjust their speech with braces or aligners
At our office, we offer custom mouthguards and guidance tailored to your child’s needs. As a provider of family orthodontics Langhorne families trust, we’re happy to help make these adjustments easier.
Need Help Managing Braces at School?
Going back to school with braces doesn’t have to be stressful. With the right preparation, your child can enjoy the school year while staying committed to their orthodontic treatment. As your dedicated PA orthodontist, we’re here to support every step of the way, whether it’s a first consultation or final retainer check.
If you’re looking for family orthodontics Langhorne parents trust, contact My Orthodontist in Langhorne today to schedule an appointment or learn more about managing orthodontic care during the school year. A straight, confident smile is worth the effort — and we’re here to help make it happen.