Back to School Routine
Heading back to school comes with new teachers, new routines, and busy schedules. If this is your child’s first time heading into the classroom with braces or a retainer, it can also bring new routines and responsibilities. The good news is, creating good routines early can make orthodontic treatment feel just like another normal part of their day.
Here are some helpful tips to make the transition smoother.
Review the Routine
Before your child heads back to school, review with them all the routines they need to follow with their new braces or new retainer. This includes brushing after meals including lunch, removing their retainer when they eat (if applicable), remembering to avoid foods that could cause damage, and how to apply orthodontic wax if needed.
Pack A Care Kit
Having the right supplies on hand is essential. Put together a small kit that your child can keep at school with them. Some items you should include are: a toothbrush, toothpaste, floss picks, orthodontic wax, retainer case (if applicable), and travel mirror.
Learn Safe Retainer Habits
One of the biggest back-to-school problems is lost retainers. If your child has a retainer, remind them to never wrap their retainer in a napkin that can get mistakenly thrown away. Teach your child the habit of always putting their retainer in its case and stored away safely while they eat in a backpack or locker. A consistent storage routine can prevent accidental loss.
Starting the school year with braces or a retainer may feel like a big adjustment at first, but with the right routines most children tend to adapt quickly. Before long it will be become second nature!