Summer is coming up fast, and that means so is Summer Camp! Summer camp is an exciting time, but for parents of kids with braces, it can also bring worries. How will my child manage their braces care away from home? What happens if something breaks? These concerns are very common, and this guide will ease your worries and help you prepare your camper for a braces friendly summer camp experience.We'll provide practical packing lists, daily care routines adapted for camp life, tips for handling unexpected issues, and advice on communicating with camp staff. By following this guide you can rest easy knowing your child has been empowered to be prepared for a memorable and orthodontically friendly summer experience.
Why Braces Care is So Important at Summer Camp
While going to summer camp is an exciting experience for kids, being out of routine can mean that they are more likely to be less diligent about their oral hygiene. Maintaining consistent oral hygiene practices while at summer camp, especially for someone with braces, is critical to prevent cavities, gum issues and staining of the teeth. Being proactive and planning ahead will ease the stress of sending your child away, and help them enjoy camp life!
Packing Checklist for Summer Camp Braces Care
Daily Oral Hygiene Routine at Camp
As with any habit or routine, consistency is key. Try to mimic your child’s routine at home as much as possible. Be sure to alert the camp counselors that your child has braces, and may need extra time to get ready for the day and bedtime to ensure proper care is taken.
Morning routine (after breakfast)
Brush your teeth for 2 full minutes
Focus on cleaning around brackets and the area between the brackets and gums
Use interdental brush to clean under the wire and up against the brackets
Rinse mouth with water
Midday routine (after lunch and snacks)
Brush your teeth if possible, or vigorously swish water around your mouth
Keep an interdental brush in a pocket for easy access to remove food from braces
Evening routine (after dinner)
Floss using ortho flossers, or regular floss
Brush your teeth for 2 full minutes
Focus on cleaning around brackets and the area between the brackets and gums
Use interdental brush to clean under the wire and up against the brackets
Rinse mouth with water
Braces-Friendly Eating at Camp
As always with braces it is important to avoid hard, crunchy and sticky foods to avoid breaking brackets and wires. However, this should not prevent you from enjoying camp with braces, as there are plenty of delicious foods you can still enjoy.
✓ Soft fruits (berries, bananas, melon, oranges)
✓ Cooked vegetables
✓ Soft bread, pasta, rice
✓ Yogurt, pudding, Jell-O
✓ Popsicles, ice cream
✓ Smoothies
✓ Cooked chicken, fish, or soft meats
✓ Soup
It is a good idea to pack braces friendly snacks for your camper, such as soft fruit bars or cookies, thin crackers, or pudding cups.
What to do if There is an Issue with the Braces
Loose or broken brackets or wires
These are the most common orthodontic issues that arise, and the most important thing is the childs comfort while at summer camp. Loose brackets can be removed from the wire, or held in place with wax for patient comfort.
Loose or broken wires can be trimmed using clean cuticle scissors or nail clippers, and wax placed over the end to cover any sharpness.
Discomfort or Sore Teeth
Take over-the-counter pain reliever according to directions
Eat soft foods, cut food into small pieces
If a bracket is rubbing up against your cheek and causing irritation, place wax on the offending bracket
Typically most orthodontic issues that may occur while at summer camp can wait until the child is back at home to be addressed by the Orthodontist. However if you have any concerns, please contact your Orthodontists office for support and advice.
With a little preparation and planning your child can enjoy summer camp while maintaining proper care of their braces. Remember to pack smart, prepare a routine, review the use of wax and what foods to avoid. Most of all, have a wonderful, memorable, and fantastic experience this summer!
