Beat the Heat with a Brace-Friendly Summer: What to Avoid with Braces
Wheeler Orthodontics | Orthodontist Near Me
Summer is all about sunshine, road trips, ice cream, and pool parties—but if you or your child just got braces, your plans might need a few tweaks. Whether you’re soaking up the sun in Toledo or heading out for some vacation adventures, there are a few summer activities and foods that don’t mix well with metal or ceramic braces. But don’t worry—avoiding these doesn’t mean missing out on the fun! With a few smart swaps and tips from your favorite orthodontist near me, you can keep your smile on track and enjoy every sunny second.
Summertime Snacks to Skip (and What to Enjoy Instead)
Sticky, crunchy, chewy—these are the biggest troublemakers when it comes to braces. Many summer favorites unfortunately fall into those categories, so here’s what to watch out for:
- Caramel Corn & Kettle Corn: These festival and fair treats can easily damage wires or pop off brackets.
- Corn on the Cob: Biting straight into a cob can loosen braces. If you must have corn, cut it off the cob first!
- Taffy, Gummies, and Chewy Candy: These sticky treats can get lodged in braces and are nearly impossible to clean out.
- Ice Cubes: It might be tempting to chew them when it’s hot out, but resist! Chewing ice is a fast track to bent wires or cracked ceramic brackets.
- Hard Pretzels and Chips: Their crunchy texture is risky for both metal and ceramic braces.
Brace-Safe Alternatives:
Try watermelon slices, soft cheese cubes, yogurt parfaits, smoothies, and popsicles made with real fruit. These options are gentle on braces and perfect for staying cool.
Beware the Summer BBQ
Barbecues are a staple of summer, but they’re also full of braces hazards. Ribs, corn on the cob, and crunchy slaws can spell disaster for your brackets. Instead of ribs, try pulled pork or chicken off the bone. Swap crunchy slaws for soft coleslaw or grilled veggies. Want something cold and creamy? Go for soft-serve ice cream or frozen yogurt—but skip the gummy toppings and hard candies.
Pool Time + Braces: What You Should Know
You don’t need to avoid the pool entirely, but there are a few things to keep in mind if you’re spending a lot of time in chlorinated water:
- Mouthguards are a must if you’re playing water volleyball or any kind of water sport. A bump to the mouth can cause real damage to braces.
- Whitening Toothpaste Caution: If you’re brushing with a whitening toothpaste all summer, the area under your brackets won’t whiten, leaving uneven shades when your braces come off. Stick with a gentle fluoride toothpaste for now.
Travel Tips for Brace-Wearers
Vacationing with braces? Be prepared so your trip doesn’t get derailed by an orthodontic issue. Here’s what to pack:
- Orthodontic wax (for pokey wires)
- A travel toothbrush and floss
- Interdental brushes or a water flosser
- A small mirror
- Pain reliever (in case of soreness)
And remember—if anything breaks or feels off, a quick Google search for “orthodontist near me“ can help you find assistance while you’re away from home.
Sports & Braces: Keep It Safe
If your summer plans include sports camps or pickup games with friends, don’t forget your mouthguard. Both metal and ceramic braces can cause cuts or injury during impact if your mouth isn’t protected. Your orthodontist can provide a mouthguard that fits over your braces for maximum comfort and safety.
Ceramic Braces in the Sun: Is There Any Extra Care Required?
Ceramic braces are less noticeable, making them a popular choice for older teens and adults; however, they do require some extra care during the summer. Here’s what to keep in mind:
- Staining Risks: Dark drinks like iced coffee, cola, or berry smoothies can stain the clear brackets and bands. Drink through a straw whenever possible, and rinse your mouth afterward.
- Discoloration from Sauces: Be mindful of pigmented sauces like barbecue or curry. If they’re on the menu, brush or rinse soon after eating.
Final Thoughts: Braces Don’t Have to Hold You Back
Summer with braces might require a bit of extra thought, but it doesn’t mean sacrificing fun. With a few smart choices and a good orthodontic routine, you can enjoy the season without a hitch. Remember: the better you care for your braces, the quicker you’ll get to that perfect summer-ready smile!
Keep Your Smile Cool with Wheeler Orthodontics
If you’re starting your smile journey or need summer care for your braces, Wheeler Orthodontics in Toledo and Archbold is here to help. Our team provides expert care for both metal and ceramic braces and can guide you through a smooth and smile-safe summer. Don’t let orthodontic worries spoil your fun—schedule your appointment with Wheeler Orthodontics today and enjoy every sunny moment with confidence.
