Back-to-School Smiles - A Great Time to Start Braces
Back-to-school checklists often include physicals, eye exams, dental cleanings and school supplies. It may also be the perfect time to schedule an orthodontic evaluation.
At The Best Braces in Southfield, MI, we help children and teens start the school year with healthy habits and a plan for a confident smile.
Why Start Orthodontic Treatment Now?
The school year brings more consistent schedules, making it easier for students to adjust to braces, follow a daily oral hygiene routine and stay on track with orthodontic appointments.
While every child is different, many students also enjoy seeing their smiles improve throughout the year. Straighter teeth can support confidence, but orthodontic treatment offers health benefits, too. Properly aligned teeth may be easier to clean, while correcting bite concerns can support comfortable chewing and long-term oral health.
Braces Tips for School
A little preparation can make caring for braces during the school day much easier.
- Pack braces-friendly foods. Soft sandwiches, pasta, yogurt, cheese, eggs, soft fruit and cooked vegetables are all good choices. Cut firmer foods, such as apples and carrots, into small pieces. Avoid hard, sticky or chewy foods that could damage brackets or wires.
- Create a braces care kit. Include a travel toothbrush, fluoride toothpaste, orthodontic flossers, wax, a small mirror and lip balm. Brushing after lunch is ideal, but rinsing thoroughly with water can help when brushing is not possible.
- Wear a mouthguard for sports. Students who participate in school or recreational sports should use an orthodontic mouthguard designed to fit over braces and protect the teeth, lips and cheeks.
Is It Time for an Orthodontic Evaluation?
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children have their first orthodontic evaluation by age 7. At this stage, an orthodontist can evaluate how the permanent teeth, jaws and bite are developing.
An early evaluation does not necessarily mean treatment will begin right away. Many children only need periodic monitoring until the timing is right.
Parents may want to schedule an evaluation if they notice:
- Crowded or overlapping teeth
- An overbite, underbite, crossbite or open bite
- Difficulty biting or chewing
- Early or late loss of baby teeth
- Prolonged thumb or finger sucking
- Teeth or jaws that do not come together properly
Add Orthodontic Care to Your School-Year Checklist
Along with your child’s physical, eye exam and dental checkup, consider adding an orthodontic evaluation to your back-to-school plans.
The Best Braces in Southfield, Michigan, provides personalized orthodontic care for children and teens throughout Southfield and the Metro Detroit area. Whether your child is ready for braces or simply needs an early evaluation, our team can help you determine the right next step.
Schedule an appointment with The Best Braces today and help your child begin the school year with a healthy, confident smile.
