By Dr. Lauren Newton, orthodontist at Valley Orthodontics
As Decatur and Hartselle families gear up for a new school year, a little orthodontic planning goes a long way. Here’s a simple back-to-school checklist for braces and Invisalign® patients - from booking your next visit before slots fill up to packing a braces kit for the locker.
The start of the school year is one of the busiest times on our schedule, so getting a few things squared away now means a smoother fall for your student - and for you. Whether your child is in braces, wearing aligners, or due for their first visit, run through the checklist below.
1. Book Your Next Appointment Early
Once the Decatur City Schools and Hartselle City School District calendars kick in, weekday afternoons book up fast. If your child is in treatment, get their next adjustment on the calendar now so you can choose a time that works around class and activities. Remember, most patients are seen only every 5 to 10 weeks, so with a little planning the impact on school time is minimal. Need to get started? Request a free first visit before the fall rush.
2. Pack a Braces Kit for School
A small zip pouch in the backpack saves a lot of mid-day stress. Include:
- Orthodontic wax for any bracket that starts to rub
- A travel toothbrush and floss to clean up after lunch
- A small mirror to spot food caught in brackets
- An over-the-counter pain reliever (per your school’s policy) for the day after an adjustment
For a full rundown of daily care, see our All About Braces guide.
3. Aligner Wearers: Protect That Wear Time
Invisalign® and clear aligners only work when they’re in - about 20 to 22 hours a day. School adds a few challenges, so remind your student to:
- Keep the case handy and never wrap aligners in a napkin at lunch (the #1 way trays get thrown away).
- Store aligners in the case, not a pocket, during meals and sports.
- Rinse and brush before popping trays back in after eating.
4. Gear Up for Fall Sports
Football, soccer, and band season are right around the corner. If your student plays a contact sport, a mouthguard is a must to protect both their teeth and their braces. Let us know which sports they play and we’ll make sure they’re set up to compete safely. (And if a bracket does take a hit during a game, our Emergency Care page walks you through what to do.)
5. Not in Treatment Yet? The Age-7 Checkup
If you have a younger child, the start of the school year is a natural time to check that first orthodontic box. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends a first orthodontic checkup by age 7 - not because most kids need braces then, but because it lets us catch developing issues at the ideal time. It’s free, and it’s one of the easiest items you’ll cross off your list. Learn what to expect at the first visit.
A Smooth Year Starts With a Plan
A few minutes of prep now means fewer surprises once homework and practice schedules take over. However your family’s smile journey is going this year, we’re here to help make it easy - at both our Decatur and Hartselle offices.
Decatur Office - 2014 Danville Park Dr SW, Decatur, AL 35603 · (256) 355-5255 Hartselle Office - 220 Karl Prince Dr SW, Hartselle, AL 35640 · (256) 773-8613
Request Your Free Consultation →
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