If your teen had the good fortune to begin braces or Invisalign treatment in the summer, they enjoyed the freedom to get used to all that newness on their own. Now that fall is upon us, tweens and teens with orthodontics need to learn how this time of year can challenge them, make life easier, and help them appreciate the work they’re doing to beautify their smile.
Make Time for Orthodontic Appointments
While some might say there is hardly a moment to spare come fall and the start of school, if you take a moment to consider the chaotic nature of summer schedules, you’ll quickly realize that a fall schedule is more structured, predictable, and manageable for teens with braces.
It’s easier to schedule orthodontic checkups to get braces adjusted and collect new Invisalign aligners. There is a level of convenience that just doesn’t exist in summer when vacations, camps, and other obligations take precedence. Consistent progress is far more viable at this time of year when there are other requirements in place like school, sports, and activities.
Develop an Oral Health Routine
Braces and Invisalign require extra TLC when it comes to flossing and brushing and cleaning hardware. Consistent fall routines invite more routines, with every obligation and responsibility overlapping so multiple things get done at the same time.
The wires and brackets of braces need to be carefully cleaned and brushed to prevent decay from sitting in, while Invisalign Teen aligners demand daily cleanings and regular soaks. Managing these tasks alongside end-of-day or getting-ready routines keeps a teen’s orthodontic treatment on a great path.
Be Cautious When It Comes to Fall Foods
Fall has truly arrived when seasonal festivals pop up, along with the treats and activities that go with them. Some of your favorite fall flavors are easy to enjoy with braces or Invisalign, like apple cider and soft pumpkin spice treats. Your menu should largely stay the same with the same cautions when it comes to meals and snacks.
Be mindful of sticky, chewy, or hard foods that immediately threaten braces hardware. Say no to caramel apples, popcorn, or anything particularly gooey that can attach to wires on your teeth and make a mess of orthodontia. Keep up with oral hygiene after you eat, and remove Invisalign trays before you eat, storing them safely.
Choose the Orthodontics That Work for You
Many people think summer is the only time for their kids to get started on braces or Invisalign treatment, but fall is a great season to invest in orthodontics. Any season, in fact, has its perks when it comes to aligning teeth and creating beautiful smiles. Adults too may find this the best time of year to finally make changes to their own alignment. Getting started in the fall on your own orthodontic journey allows you to adjust to the presence of braces or trays and manage food restrictions far in advance of major holidays.
Contact the orthodontic team at Soleil Orthodontics in Woodinville, WA, to learn more about what’s possible for you or your child, and how to transition existing braces from a summer to fall way of life. Schedule an appointment today.
