As the weather starts to heat up and summer activities begin, it’s important to be proactive in preventing orthodontic emergencies. Especially as you send the kids off to camp or on vacation. As an orthodontist, Dr. Kincer has a few simple steps to help keep young smiles healthy and happy all summer long.
One of the easiest and most effective ways to prevent orthodontic emergencies is by wearing a sports mouthguard during any physical activities. Whether it’s a pick-up game of basketball with friends or an organized team sport, a mouthguard can help protect your braces and teeth from impact. The guard will help buffer your orthodontic appliances, protecting everything from your teeth to your lips and cheeks.
Another useful tool for preventing emergencies is keeping orthodontic wax on hand. Wax can be applied to brackets or wires that are causing irritation or discomfort, providing relief until you can make it into our office. We recommend keeping a small container of wax in your purse, backpack, or car to ensure you’re always prepared.
Lastly, we encourage all of our patients to come in for an exam before heading off on summer vacation or to summer camp. This will allow us to ensure that everything is properly adjusted and to address any potential issues before they become bigger problems. Additionally, we can offer helpful tips for maintaining good oral hygiene while away from home.
A little preparation can go a long way in keeping your smile healthy and safe this summer. As always, our orthodontist Dr. William R. Kincer is here to help – please don’t hesitate to call us with any questions or concerns!