Summer has arrived! After a long winter and over a year of social distancing, we hope you are gearing up for some summer fun. Among all the swimming, barbecues, and excitement comes the return of the camp season. And, for many places around the country, camp enrollment is at an all-time high! We know you want your child to be ready for the fun that comes with camp—without forgetting to care for their braces.
What to pack for healthy smiles
Before your child leaves for summer adventures, prepare at home by ensuring that they are up to date with any necessary appointments or adjustments! Make sure that your child is fully packed for the adventure that awaits them with the right equipment to care for their braces. The ideal gear includes…
- Toothbrush and toothpaste
- Orthodontic wax
- Floss with orthodontic threader
- Mirror for hard-to-see areas
- Mouthguard for activities
- Retainer with case/aligner case (if applicable)
Caring for braces while at camp
The key to caring for braces at camp is to maintain the same routine as at home. Every step—brushing, flossing, and wearing a retainer—is still important at camp. That being said, there are some days when your child will go out hiking or be away from a base without easy access to all their orthodontic care or running water. Never fear! There are still ways to protect oral health even when your child can’t perform their normal routine.
During snack times, your child should drink lots of water with their food, which can help cleanse the mouth of food particles that can cause cavities. It’s also important to steer clear of sugary sodas or sports drinks, which cause tooth decay. And, as always, children with braces should avoid all sticky, chewy, or hard foods. While it may not be possible for your child to put all their braces care in their day pack, a good tip is to bring dental floss along on hikes or other activities. That way, they can clean out food that gets stuck in their braces quickly and without fuss.
Any time your child is participating in rigorous activity or sport, they should also bring along a mouthguard to protect their teeth, mouth, and appliances. The last thing you or your child needs to worry about is an orthodontic emergency interrupting an active day of fun. With these tips in mind, we’re sure your child will enjoy a healthy, happy time at camp!