Summer is almost over and as you help your kids prepare to go back to school, there are probably a million things going through your mind. You may be prepared when it comes to clothing and school supplies, but it’s important to also not forget their orthodontic treatment.
Whether it’s their first time wearing braces or they have been undergoing orthodontic treatment for a while, it always helps to ensure they have the essentials covered as they go back to school. Here are some easy steps to take to ensure your child stays smiling and their mouth stays healthy.
- Pre-book appointments: Regular checkups and adjustments with your orthodontist are essential to making sure that the correct tooth movement is occurring. Between homework to extra-curricular activities, It may be difficult to stay on top of your child’s check-ups. You can avoid having to make last-minute appointments by pre-booking your child’s check-ups. Pre-booking helps you stay on top of your child’s appointments and helps you stay organised.
- Brush before school: It is essential that your child brushes their teeth before leaving for school in the morning. With busy schedules, it’s not uncommon for a child to eat breakfast in the car, the bus or at school. However, that doesn’t give your child a teeth-brushing pass. It is essential that your child brushes their teeth before their first meal and rinses after the first meal.
- Brushing at school: The school day will see your child eating lunch and at least a snack. With braces, they will need to clean their teeth after each meal. While brushing in the bathroom may be awkward for kids, especially teenagers, they may find it easier and less awkward if they only have to swish with a cleansing mouthwash while at school. Ask your orthodontist for his recommendation on the type of rinsing agent to use and how to use it.
- Carry essential items: A small toiletry bag can easily contain all of these essential items that will help your child keep on top of their oral hygiene while at school.
- A toothbrush
- Toothpaste
- Floss/ Pikster toothbrush
- A compact mirror
- Extra rubber bands (if elastics are being used in their treatment)
- Dental wax
- Cases for any removable appliances
- Get your child fitted for a mouth guard: While this may not apply to all children, if your child is in any sports especially contact sports, ask your orthodontist about mouthguards. Sports like hockey and football require kids to use mouthguards but others don’t. Taking a hit in the mouth while wearing braces can seriously damage their teeth. Consider protecting their teeth with mouthguards for your child’s safety and your peace of mind.
Taking these back-to-school tips into account could save your child pain and can also save you emergency orthodontic bills.
Need to make a back-to-school orthodontic appointment? Start off the School year right and visit us at The orthodontic Centre at Northland for your FREE consultation. Book your appointment online today!