4 Tips for a Perfect Summer Smile

Chorak Orthodontics

Summer is here! Together with pool parties and vacations, summer brings delectable treats and fun activities. It’s important that you enjoy your summer while still taking care of your braces and teeth. 

Tip 1: Playing Sports with Braces

Summer means warmer temperatures which also means you may be spending more time outside. Always remember to wear your mouth guard during outdoor activities including baseball, frisbee, or volleyball. A mouth guard can protect your teeth and braces from potential harm and mouth injuries. 

Tip 2: Eating with Braces 

While the occasional sweet treat is OK…be mindful that braces are sensitive to damage, so you’ll need to avoid certain foods for as long as you have braces. These include sticky and hard foods that can damage the wires or bands, or cause a bracket to separate from a tooth. Also, limit consumption of sugary foods and drinks this summer. When sugar mixes with saliva, it creates a sticky film (plaque) that coats the teeth. 

Tip 3: Traveling with Braces

Whether you’re packing for summer camp or a vacation, you should bring all of your oral hygiene essentials with you. If you don't have one already...you can create an oral care kit that contains the following items:

• A handheld mirror 
• Floss 
• Floss picks or toothpicks 
• Toothbrush 
• Toothpaste 
• Travel-size mouthwash

Tip 4: Maintaining Oral Health

During vacation, it’s hard to keep up with your daily routine. When you’re staying up late with friends and family...the last thing you want to do is brush and floss before going to bed. But, when it comes to your oral health, it’s important to stick to your routine, including brushing and flossing. You should brush your teeth twice a day and floss at least once a day. This simple habit will keep your teeth healthy and bright throughout the summer.

At Chorak Orthodontics, we pride ourselves on the courteous service we deliver to each person that visits our office. Whether you are an adult, adolescent, or child, we are committed to helping you achieve the smile you deserve. If you have any questions on how to take care of your teeth and braces this summer be sure to give our Fairwood or Mercer Island office a call. Our friendly team is here to help.