When your kid’s sporting braces, brushing off oral hygiene isn’t an option. Between after-school snacks at Jeremiah’s Ice and weekend trips to Universal Studios or Disney World, those brackets are working overtime (and so are the bacteria)! Dr. Lauris Johnson and the team at MyFamily Orthodontics know that keeping teeth clean during treatment can be tricky, but it doesn’t have to be a constant struggle. Before we jump into brushing routines, let’s talk about what goes on the plate and what’s better left off.
Braces-Friendly Bites Kids Actually Like
Hungry kids and orthodontic appliances don’t always mix. One wrong bite into a popcorn ball from Winter Garden Farmers Market, and you’re looking at a repair appointment. The good news? There are plenty of options that are both braces-friendly and kid-approved.
Skip the sticky, crunchy, or chewy stuff and try these safer options instead:
- Yogurt or pudding cups – smooth, soft, and easy to pack for school lunches
- Soft fruits – bananas, ripe peaches, or melon cubes make great snack choices
- Cheese sticks or cubes – packed with calcium and no bracket damage in sight
- Smoothies – a cold treat that works for breakfast or snack time
- Peanut butter on soft bread – just avoid the crunchy variety
Smart snacks keep things simple for your child—and for the team at MyFamily Orthodontics. Next, let’s get into the brushing and flossing strategies that help those healthy choices pay off.
Brush and Floss Like a Pro
Braces can trap food and plaque in places that toothbrushes don’t always reach—unless you’ve got a good system! Helping your child build a solid routine will keep their smile healthy through every stage of treatment.
Here’s what that routine might look like:
Brush after every meal
Food particles love to hide around brackets and wires, so brushing right after eating keeps things clean.
Use a soft-bristled or electric toothbrush
A gentle brush (manual or powered) paired with fluoride toothpaste works best. Remind your child to angle the brush around each bracket.
Try an interdental brush
These tiny tools are perfect for sneaking between wires and cleaning what the big brush can’t.
Floss once a day (yes, it’s possible!)
Floss threaders or orthodontic flossers make the job easier. Many kids prefer a water flosser for speed and convenience.
Make it part of the nightly routine
Keeping floss in a drawer next to their toothbrush (and not tucked away) helps turn a chore into a habit.
Now that brushing and flossing are covered, let’s look at how regular check-ins with Dr. Johnson help everything stay on track.
Don’t Skip the Check-Ins
Orthodontic treatment doesn’t stop the moment you leave the office. Every few weeks, your child’s progress depends on quick but important tune-ups. Each visit with Dr. Johnson is a chance to keep things running smoothly, fine-tune progress, and make sure every step is lining up with the bigger picture.
MyFamily Orthodontics makes it easy by offering flexible appointments in both Windermere and Orlando. Parents often book early-morning visits before school drop-offs or swing by after soccer practice. Staying consistent with these appointments helps reduce surprises down the road and can even shorten treatment time.
Pair that with regular dental cleanings and prompt communication if anything feels off, and you’re setting your child up for smoother progress. Up next: the small habits that help kids keep their momentum between visits.
Make Room for Mini Wins
Big improvements often start with the little stuff, like encouraging your child to take ownership of their care. When kids understand the why behind treatment, they’re more likely to stay motivated through the day-to-day. Dr. Johnson and the team at MyFamily Orthodontics make sure kids feel included from the start, turning what could feel like a chore into something they’re proud of.
Here are a few ways to build in those feel-good moments:
- Use a progress tracker or sticker chart to celebrate clean check-ins
- Let them choose their WildSmiles bracket shapes or band colors
- Set a fun reward for completing daily brushing and aligner wear goals
Turning orthodontic care into something positive helps kids stay engaged, especially during longer treatments. Next, let’s talk about how to keep your child’s smile protected on the field, court, or wherever their favorite sport takes them.
Keep Sports Safe Without Skipping the Season
From Windermere Prep’s basketball court to weekend practices at Dr. P. Phillips Community Park, kids with braces don’t need to sit out. They just need a little extra protection.
Why a Custom Mouthguard Matters
Off-the-shelf mouthguards often don’t fit well over braces. A custom one offers better coverage, comfort, and protection, especially for kids in contact sports.
How to Keep It Game-Ready
To keep a mouthguard safe (and sanitary):
- Rinse it before and after each use
- Store it in a ventilated case
- Clean it regularly with mild soap or mouthwash
If Something Gets Knocked Loose
Sports accidents happen. If a bracket or wire shifts out of place, call MyFamily Orthodontics so Dr. Johnson can get things back on track quickly.
Along with keeping their gear game strong, there’s one more ingredient that helps your child stay on track: you.
Your Role in the Routine
Even the most independent kids still need a little backup now and then. A quick reminder to floss, help replace a lost aligner case, or cheer them on after a good check-up. Those moments add up!
Parents play a big part in building consistency, especially during the early weeks of treatment. Whether you’re checking in on brushing habits or making sure their WildSmiles bands match their school colors, staying involved keeps everything moving forward.
Even on the tough days, your support goes a long way. And when it’s paired with the care your child gets from Dr. Johnson and the MyFamily Orthodontics crew, you’ve got a team that truly has their back!
Because Braces Work Best with a Little Backup
Your child’s orthodontic treatment doesn’t have to be a constant battle of reminders and repairs. With the right snacks, smart habits, and support from Dr. Johnson and the MyFamily Orthodontics team, keeping things on track can actually feel manageable. From Windermere school days to Orlando weekend adventures, a healthier smile fits right into your busy day. Schedule your free consultation today and let’s team up for a smoother, happier smile experience!