Summer is a Great Time to Start Braces

Summer is in full swing …the sun is warm, the days are longer and we are enjoying being outdoors. Summer is a great time of year, not only for cookouts and beach trips, but it’s also a great time of year to start orthodontic treatment. With the kids out of school and many parents on vacation, appointments can be much easier to schedule. But there are other good reasons to start treatment in the summer too.

No missed school: The first orthodontic appointments are usually the longest (as well as when treatment ends). The initial exam is an hour. (This is your first visit to our office when we do a full evaluation and present your individual treatment plan.) If braces are in your future you can expect the banding appointment (placement of the braces) to be ab out 1 ½ - 2 hours. When starting in the summer there are no worries about missing school.

Time to adjust: The first few days of treatment may bring some discomfort as your teeth begin to move and shift. This discomfort usually lasts a few days and then subsides. Most people are fine to return to work and school immediately. However, those who are more susceptible to pain may like a few days to just stay home and relax.

Time to develop new habits: Beginning orthodontic treatment will require some changes. Brushing more frequently (about 4-5 times a day with braces) is a must. There may be dietary changes that need to be made as well. Some foods (hard and sticky) need to be avoided when braces or appliances are worn because they can cause damage. Starting treatment in the summer gives kids time to make these adjustments and form good habits more easily than when they are busy with school and sports.

Summer is the Season for Ice Cream and Smoothies: There is nothing more soothing than a cold treat after the braces go on. New braces are the perfect excuse to indulge.

 

For more information on orthodontic treatment or to schedule an appointment visit our website http://www.natickorthodontics.com/