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Tuckahoe, NY – Summer is almost over, and school will be starting before you know it. Tuckahoe Family Orthodontics wants to offer a few tips for patients in braces who are heading back to school.

1. Make a braces care kit. Keeping a care kit with you in your backpack or in your locker can help make caring for your braces during school hours a breeze. Put a travel sized toothbrush and toothpaste in it, as well as floss, extra elastics, and orthodontic wax. A travel sized bottle of mouthwash is always a good idea, too.
2. Stick to your braces diet. We know you may be busier once school and activities start up, but don’t forget the dos and don’ts of braces eating. Stay away from anything too hard, chewy or sticky so you don’t damage your braces.
3. Pack a water bottle. You may not have the time you’d like to adequately brush after your lunch – keep a bottle of water with you to help keep your braces clean. Drinking water can help clear away any food residue that may be left behind after eating.
4. Don’t forget a mouthguard. If you play sports that could involve any injury to the mouth, Tuckahoe Family Orthodontics recommends a mouthguard. Dr. Sam Polan can create a custom one for you, or help you determine which store-bought one will be best for you.
5. Don’t forget about your check-ups. We know your schedule will fill up quickly with school, homework, and extracurricular activities. But your orthodontist still needs to see you every few weeks to be sure your treatment is progressing as it should and to make any adjustments necessary.

“School and braces can go together well, as long as you remember these important tips,” says Dr. Polan. “Getting into the right back-to-school rhythm with your braces may take a bit of getting used to, especially if you are new to braces. But we promise that in no time, you and your braces will be handling the school day like pros.”

If you are in need of a back-to-school check-up, or if you would like more information on how to help your child care for braces during the school day, call Dr. Polan at Tuckahoe Family Orthodontics today at 914-654-1859.