Fall Fun with Braces

With fall in full swing, it’s time to embrace all the fun activities that come with this season. From pumpkin picking to apple cider sipping, there’s so much to enjoy during this time of year. But if you have braces, you may be wondering if these activities are off-limits. The good news is that you can still have a blast while wearing braces, as long as you take some extra precautions. Here are some tips for enjoying fall fun with braces from Ogden Orthodontics.

Be Mindful of What You Eat and Drink

When it comes to fall treats, some items are better for your braces than others. Hard candies, sticky caramel apples, and chewy taffy may be tempting, but they can also be damaging to your braces. The same goes for drinks like apple cider and pumpkin spice lattes, which can contain a lot of sugar and stick to your braces. Instead, opt for soft fruits like applesauce or pears. If you do indulge in a pumpkin spice latte, be sure to brush your teeth soon after to remove any residue from your braces.

Bring a Water Bottle

One of the most important things to remember when participating in outdoor fall fun activities is to stay hydrated. But with braces, it’s important to choose your beverages carefully. Sugary drinks like hot cocoa and apple cider can damage your braces and increase the risk of tooth decay. Therefore, it’s a good idea to bring a water bottle with you to keep hydrated throughout the day. Not only will this help keep your braces in good shape, but it will also prevent any discomfort from dry mouth that can be caused by wearing braces.

Use Wax if Needed

If you have new or recently adjusted braces, they may cause some discomfort or irritation in your mouth. This can make fall activities like apple picking or corn mazes less enjoyable. But don’t let braces hold you back from having fun! If your braces are causing discomfort, use dental wax to protect the inside of your cheeks and lips. Simply apply a small amount of wax to the areas where your braces are causing friction, and it will provide a barrier between your braces and your cheeks. This will help reduce any discomfort and allow you to enjoy your fall activities without worry.

Pack Some Supplies

Braces require extra care and attention, so it’s always a good idea to have some supplies on hand when you’re out and about. For fall fun activities, you may want to pack a travel toothbrush and toothpaste, as well as some floss. This will allow you to keep your braces clean and free of any food particles that may get stuck throughout the day. You may also want to bring a small mirror to check for any food or debris that may be stuck in your braces, especially after eating.

Wear a Mouthguard for Outdoor Activities

Fall is the perfect time for outdoor activities like football and hiking. But these activities also come with an added risk of injury, especially for those with braces. To protect your braces and your mouth, it’s best to wear a mouthguard. Regular mouthguards may not fit properly over braces, so talk to our team about getting a custom-made mouthguard that can accommodate your braces. This will not only protect your braces but also your teeth and lips from any potential injuries.

With these tips in mind, it’s possible to enjoy all the fall fun activities while wearing braces. Remember to be mindful of what you eat and drink, stay hydrated with water, use wax for any discomfort, pack necessary supplies, and wear a mouthguard for outdoor sports. And most importantly, have fun and enjoy this beautiful season! If you have any concerns or questions about your braces during the fall season, don’t hesitate to reach out to Ogden Orthodontics for guidance and support.