Before you pack your bags and head to the beach, lake, or pool this summer, don’t forget about your braces. While caring for your braces is typically straightforward, the summer months pose a few additional considerations. When you set aside a few key items and practice reasonable caution, you can enjoy a fun, relaxing vacation. Enjoy the season to the fullest by following essential dental care advice. 

3 Tips for Braces During the Summer 

1. Pack Wisely

Along with your bathing suit and towel, you’ll also want to bring a few braces care items. In addition to a travel toothbrush, bring a floss pick or floss as well as mouth rinse, which will remove debris from between your braces. Don’t forget your water bottle, either, which supports a healthy oral environment while helping you stay hydrated. In case any wires protrude, bring some orthodontic wax. Finally, pack a small hand mirror to check for your braces for debris while you’re on-the-go. 

2. Avoid Certain Foods

You already know to avoid chewy, sticky foods for the sake of your braces. However, due the prevalence of the likes of cotton candy and caramel apples, committing to your diet can be especially challenging during the summer months. Protect your braces when you avoid food like hard and gummy candies, corn on the cob, cookies, pretzels, bagels, nuts, and whole apples or pears. If you must indulge in some sweet treats, try a whole fruit popsicle or frozen yogurt. 

3. Stay Safe During Sports

Protect your braces and your oral health when you wear a custom-fit mouthguard while playing sports this summer. Whether you’re playing beach volleyball, skateboarding, or swinging the bat during a softball game, the American Dental Association recommends the use of mouthguards during both contact and non-contact sports. To lower the risk of injury, be sure to visit your dentist to obtain a comfortable, custom-fit device. 

The friendly dentists from Athens, Georgia’s trusted practice strive to help the local community maintain bright, healthy smiles this summer and beyond. To learn more about healthy dental care, visit the team of dentists, orthodontists, and oral surgeons from Athens Family Dental online. If you would like to schedule an appointment, call a helpful professional today at (706) 548-3279.