Introduction

Summer in North Carolina is a time for sunshine, outdoor adventures, and making memories with family and friends. Whether you’re planning trips to the beach, attending summer camps, or simply enjoying the longer days, it’s important not to take a break from your orthodontic care. At MyOrthodontist, with 14 convenient locations across the state, we understand the unique challenges that summer brings for patients with braces or clear aligners. This comprehensive guide will help you maintain your orthodontic health, protect your smile, and keep your treatment on track—all while enjoying everything summer has to offer.

Table of Contents

1. Why Summer Is a Critical Time for Orthodontic Care
2. Summer Foods: What to Enjoy and What to Avoid
3. Traveling with Braces or Aligners: Tips for Success
4. Summer Sports and Braces: Staying Safe and Active
5. Oral Hygiene on the Go: Keeping Your Smile Bright
6. Managing Orthodontic Emergencies During Summer
7. Braces-Friendly Summer Activities
8. Scheduling and Attending Your Summer Appointments
9. The Importance of Hydration and Oral Health
10. Building Healthy Habits for Lifelong Smiles
11. FAQs: Summer Orthodontic Care
12. About MyOrthodontist & How to Reach Us

1. Why Summer Is a Critical Time for Orthodontic Care

Routine Disruption

Summer means changes in routine. With school out and schedules more flexible, it’s easy to let good habits slip. Sleepovers, vacations, and spontaneous outings can all disrupt your regular oral hygiene and care schedule. Consistency is key for successful orthodontic treatment—missing just a few days of proper care can set your progress back.

Dietary Temptations

Summer is full of tempting treats—ice cream, popcorn at the movies, sticky candies at the fair. Many of these can damage braces or make aligner care difficult. Knowing what to avoid and what to enjoy is half the battle.

Travel and Outdoor Activities

More time away from home means new challenges for oral hygiene. Whether you’re hiking in the mountains, traveling to the coast, or camping in a state park, it’s important to plan ahead for your orthodontic needs.

The MyOrthodontist Perspective

Our team sees more emergency visits in the summer due to broken brackets, lost aligners, and forgotten appointments. That’s why we’ve created this guide—to help you avoid the most common pitfalls and keep your treatment on track.

2. Summer Foods: What to Enjoy and What to Avoid

Braces-Friendly Foods

Summer brings a bounty of delicious, braces-safe foods. Here are some favorites:

• Soft Fruits: Watermelon, berries, bananas, peaches, and nectarines are all gentle on braces.
• Yogurt and Smoothies: Cool, creamy, and easy to customize with your favorite fruits.
• Grilled Vegetables: Zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms are soft and flavorful.
• Pasta Salads: Skip the crunchy toppings and enjoy soft pasta with veggies and dressing.
• Ice Cream and Frozen Yogurt: Enjoy in moderation, and avoid hard mix-ins like nuts or candy.

Foods to Avoid

Some summer staples can wreak havoc on your braces or aligners:

• Sticky Candies: Caramel, taffy, and gummy candies can pull off brackets and wires.
• Popcorn: Kernels can get stuck and damage appliances.
• Corn on the Cob: Cut the kernels off before eating.
• Hard Ice Cubes and Crunchy Snacks: Don’t chew ice or hard chips.
• Sugary Drinks: Soda and sweet teas can increase the risk of cavities, especially if oral hygiene slips.

Tips for Healthy Choices

• Plan Ahead: Bring braces-friendly snacks to parties and outings.
• Stay Hydrated: Water is the best choice for your teeth and overall health.
• Rinse After Eating: If you can’t brush right away, rinse your mouth with water.

Braces-Safe Summer Recipes

• Berry Smoothie: Blend berries, banana, yogurt, and a splash of milk.
• Grilled Veggie Skewers: Thread soft veggies onto skewers and grill until tender.
• Frozen Yogurt Bark: Spread yogurt on a tray, top with soft fruit, freeze, and break into pieces.

3. Traveling with Braces or Aligners: Tips for Success

Packing Essentials

Before you hit the road, make sure you have everything you need:

• Orthodontic wax
• Travel toothbrush and toothpaste
• Floss threaders or orthodontic flossers
• Small bottle of mouthwash
• Aligner case (if using Invisalign or similar)
• Extra elastics (if prescribed)
• Interdental brushes

On-the-Go Hygiene

• Brush and Floss After Every Meal: Even when you’re away from home.
• Use Bottled Water: If you’re camping or traveling, use bottled water for rinsing and brushing.
• Keep Aligners Safe: Always store them in their case when not in use.

Emergencies on the Road

• Lost Aligner: Move to the next in your series if you’re close to the scheduled change; otherwise, wear the previous one and call us for advice.
• Broken Bracket or Wire: Use wax to cover sharp edges and call MyOrthodontist as soon as possible.

International Travel

• Contact Information: Keep our phone numbers and email addresses handy in case you need to reach us from abroad.
• Virtual Consultations: Ask about telehealth options if you’ll be away for an extended period.

4. Summer Sports and Braces: Staying Safe and Active

The Importance of Mouthguards

Sports are a big part of summer, but they can be risky for orthodontic patients. A custom-fitted mouthguard is essential for:

• Soccer
• Basketball
• Baseball
• Skateboarding
• Mountain biking

Choosing the Right Mouthguard

• Custom Mouthguards: Best fit and protection, available through our office.
• Boil-and-Bite Mouthguards: Available at sporting goods stores, but may not fit as well with braces.

Tips for Active Kids and Teens

• Don’t Skip the Mouthguard: Even non-contact sports can result in falls or collisions.
• Check for Damage: Inspect your braces and mouthguard after each game.

Swimming and Water Activities

• Chlorine and Oral Health: Rinse your mouth after swimming in chlorinated pools.
• Lost Aligners: Never leave aligners by the pool; always use a case.

5. Oral Hygiene on the Go: Keeping Your Smile Bright

Daily Routine

• Brush at Least Twice a Day: Three times is even better during orthodontic treatment.
• Floss Daily: Use floss threaders or orthodontic flossers.
• Use Mouthwash: An antimicrobial rinse can help reduce plaque.

Dealing with Sticky Situations

• After S’mores or Ice Cream: Rinse your mouth and brush as soon as possible.
• Portable Kits: Keep a small kit in your bag or car.

Recommended Products

• Electric Toothbrush: More effective at removing plaque.
• Interdental Brushes: Great for cleaning around brackets and wires.
• Fluoride Toothpaste: Strengthens enamel and helps prevent cavities.

6. Managing Orthodontic Emergencies During Summer

Common Issues

• Loose Wires or Brackets: Use wax to cover sharp edges and call us.
• Lost or Broken Retainers/Aligners: Contact us ASAP for replacements.
• Soreness or Ulcers: Saltwater rinses and wax can provide relief.

First Aid Tips

• Orthodontic Wax: Cover any irritating areas.
• Saltwater Rinse: Mix 1 teaspoon of salt in 8 ounces of warm water.
• Pain Relief: Over-the-counter pain relievers can help with soreness.

When to Call MyOrthodontist

If you experience significant pain, bleeding, or have a broken appliance, call us right away. We offer emergency appointments at all 14 of our North Carolina locations.

7. Braces-Friendly Summer Activities

Braces-Friendly Activities

• Pool Parties: Just remember to keep aligners in a safe case.
• Movie Nights: Choose soft snacks like cheese, yogurt, or smoothies.
• Arts and Crafts: A great way to stay busy and creative indoors.
• Picnics: Pack braces-safe foods and enjoy the outdoors.

Staying Social

• Confidence with Braces: Remember, many people have braces—smile proudly!
• Braces-Safe Selfies: Practice your best smile and show off your progress.

Building Healthy Habits

• Make oral hygiene a fun family activity—set reminders and reward consistency.

8. Scheduling and Attending Your Summer Appointments

Flexible Scheduling

We know summer can be busy! MyOrthodontist offers flexible appointment times to fit your summer plans. Early morning and late afternoon slots are available.

Why Appointments Matter

• Adjustments: Keeping your appointments ensures your treatment stays on track.
• Monitoring Progress: We can catch and fix issues before they become bigger problems.

Virtual Consultations

If you’re traveling or away for an extended period, ask about our virtual check-in options.

How to Reschedule

If you need to change your appointment, call or email us as soon as possible so we can find a time that works for you.

9. The Importance of Hydration and Oral Health

Why Hydration Matters

• Saliva Production: Staying hydrated helps maintain saliva, which protects your teeth.
• Rinsing Away Food Debris: Water helps flush away sugars and acids.

Best Drinks for Summer

• Water: Always the best choice.
• Milk: Good for teeth, but brush after flavored varieties.
• Avoid: Soda, sports drinks, and sweet teas.

Tips for Staying Hydrated

• Carry a reusable water bottle.
• Add slices of fruit for natural flavor.
• Set reminders to drink water throughout the day.

10. Building Healthy Habits for Lifelong Smiles

Summer as a Time for Growth

Use the extra time in summer to build habits that will last a lifetime:

• Daily Brushing and Flossing: Make it a non-negotiable part of your routine.
• Healthy Eating: Choose snacks that are good for your teeth and body.
• Regular Dental Visits: Don’t skip your regular cleanings.

Parental Tips

• Set Reminders: Use phone alarms or sticky notes.
• Make It Fun: Use colorful toothbrushes or create a reward chart.

For Teens

• Stay Motivated: Remember your end goal—a beautiful, healthy smile!
• Share Your Journey: Connect with others on social media or in person.

11. FAQs: Summer Orthodontic Care

Can I swim with braces or aligners?
Yes! Just be sure to wear a mouthguard for sports and keep aligners in their case when not in use.

What if I miss an appointment?
Call or email us as soon as possible to reschedule. Missing appointments can delay your treatment.

How do I handle discomfort while traveling?
Use orthodontic wax, saltwater rinses, and over-the-counter pain relievers. Contact us if the issue persists.

Are there any summer foods I should absolutely avoid?
Sticky candies, popcorn, and hard snacks should be avoided. When in doubt, ask us!

Can I have ice cream with braces?
Yes, but avoid hard mix-ins and brush after enjoying your treat.

12. About MyOrthodontist & How to Reach Us

At MyOrthodontist, our experienced team provides expert orthodontic care tailored to your unique needs. Whether you’re managing braces during summer or starting your orthodontic journey, we’re here to support you every step of the way—no matter which North Carolina community you call home.

 

Contact us today at any of our 14 convenient locations:

 

Burgaw, NC Office
303 S. McNeil St., Burgaw, NC, 28425-5015
(910) 300-9590 | (910) 300-9591
[email protected]

 

Cary, NC Office
150 Preston Executive Drive, Suite 102, Cary, NC 27513
(919) 469-6683 | (919) 469-6636
[email protected]

 

Chapel Hill, NC Office
501 Eastowne Dr., Suite 230, Chapel Hill, NC 27514
(919) 928-0105 | (919) 928-0630
[email protected]

 

Concord, NC Office
845 Church Street. N. Suite 301, Concord, NC 28025
(704) 784-3611 | (704) 721-3224
[email protected]

 

Durham, NC Office
7011 Fayetteville Road, Suite 201, Durham, NC 27713
(919) 493-8944 | (919) 490-1880
[email protected]

 

Fayetteville, NC Office
222 Fairway Drive, Fayetteville, NC 28305
(910) 484-8191 | (910) 484-0502
[email protected]

 

Greensboro, NC Office
1002 N. Church St., Suite 400, Greensboro, NC 27401
(336) 545-0161 | (336) 697-6440
[email protected]

 

Mount Airy, NC Office
933 Rockford Street., Suite 4, Mount Airy, NC 27030
(336) 789-4742 | (336) 443-5857
[email protected]

 

Raleigh, NC Office
2501 Atrium Drive, Suite 301, Raleigh, NC 27607
(919) 782-9588 | (919) 782-9651
[email protected]

 

Roanoke Rapids, NC Office
1165 Gregory Dr., Suite A, Roanoke Rapids, NC 27870
(252) 544-5630 | (252) 631-0291
[email protected]

 

Rocky Mount, NC Office
120 Clinton Court, Rocky Mount, NC 27804
(252) 451-1010 | (252) 451-1680
[email protected]

 

Sanford, NC Office
1919 Bragg Street, Suite 7, Sanford, NC 27330
(919) 718-0335 | (919) 718-0336
[email protected]

Wake Forest, NC Office
616 Dr. Calvin Jones Highway, Suite 200, Wake Forest, NC 27587
(919) 556-1422 | (919) 556-2455
[email protected]

 

Washington, NC Office
1401 Bridge St., Washington, NC 27889
(252) 362-6020 | (252) 462-1012
[email protected]

Website: https://myorthodontistnc.com/

Conclusion

Summer is a wonderful time to enjoy life and make lasting memories. With the right care and precautions, you can protect your orthodontic appliances and keep your smile healthy throughout the season. If you have any questions or need to schedule an appointment, MyOrthodontist is here to help you smile confidently all summer long.