Introduction
Summer in Steamboat Springs offers endless opportunities for outdoor fun, adventure, and enjoying delicious seasonal treats. At Coombs Orthodontics, we understand that summer brings unique challenges for patients undergoing orthodontic treatment. Whether you have braces or clear aligners, maintaining excellent oral health during the summer months is essential to keep your smile on track. This comprehensive guide will help you navigate summer with confidence, protect your orthodontic appliances, and enjoy the season without compromising your treatment progress.
Table of Contents
- Why Summer Is a Critical Time for Orthodontic Care
- Summer Foods: What to Enjoy and What to Avoid
- Traveling with Braces or Aligners: Tips for Success
- Summer Sports and Braces: Staying Safe and Active
- Oral Hygiene on the Go: Keeping Your Smile Bright
- Managing Orthodontic Emergencies During Summer
- Fun Summer Activities That Are Braces-Friendly
- Scheduling and Attending Your Summer Appointments
- FAQs: Summer Orthodontic Care
- About Coombs Orthodontics & How to Reach Us
1. Why Summer Is a Critical Time for Orthodontic Care
Summer often disrupts daily routines, and this can affect your orthodontic care. With school out and schedules more flexible, it’s easy to overlook the consistent habits that keep your braces or aligners in top condition. Additionally, summer foods and activities can pose risks to your orthodontic appliances. Dr. Cory Coombs emphasizes that maintaining your orthodontic routine during summer is key to achieving the best possible results in the shortest time.
2. Summer Foods: What to Enjoy and What to Avoid
Summer is a time for fresh fruits, cool treats, and barbecues, but some foods can damage braces or make aligner care difficult.
Braces-Friendly Foods:
- Soft fruits like watermelon, berries, and bananas
- Smoothies and yogurt parfaits
- Grilled vegetables and soft sandwiches
Foods to Avoid:
- Sticky candies and caramel
- Popcorn and nuts
- Hard ice cubes and crunchy chips
- Corn on the cob (cut it off the cob instead)
Enjoying braces-safe summer snacks helps prevent broken brackets and keeps your treatment on schedule.
3. Traveling with Braces or Aligners: Tips for Success
Summer often means travel, which can complicate your orthodontic care. Here are some tips to stay on track:
- Pack a travel kit with essentials: orthodontic wax, a travel toothbrush, floss threaders, and your aligner case.
- Brush and floss after every meal, even on the go.
- Keep your aligners in their case when not wearing them to avoid loss or damage.
- If you lose an aligner or experience a broken bracket, contact Coombs Orthodontics immediately for guidance.
4. Summer Sports and Braces: Staying Safe and Active
Active summer sports are great for health but can pose risks to orthodontic appliances. Dr. Coombs recommends wearing a custom-fitted mouthguard during contact sports such as football, soccer, or basketball to protect your teeth and braces. For swimming and other non-contact activities, regular oral care routines are sufficient.
5. Oral Hygiene on the Go: Keeping Your Smile Bright
Maintaining excellent oral hygiene during summer is vital. Brush at least twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Floss daily using floss threaders or orthodontic flossers designed for braces. Consider using an antimicrobial mouth rinse to reduce plaque buildup. Carry a portable oral hygiene kit when you’re out enjoying summer activities.
6. Managing Orthodontic Emergencies During Summer
Orthodontic emergencies can happen anytime. Common issues include loose wires, broken brackets, or lost aligners. If you experience discomfort from a poking wire, use orthodontic wax to cover the area temporarily. For lost or broken appliances, contact Coombs Orthodontics promptly at (970) 870-9200 for advice and to schedule an emergency visit if necessary.
7. Fun Summer Activities That Are Braces-Friendly
Enjoy summer activities that won’t interfere with your orthodontic treatment. Ideas include:
- Pool parties and swimming
- Movie nights and board games
- Arts and crafts
- Picnics with braces-safe foods
These activities help you stay social and active while protecting your smile.
8. Scheduling and Attending Your Summer Appointments
Don’t let summer disrupt your treatment schedule. Coombs Orthodontics offers flexible appointment times to fit your summer plans. Regular adjustments and check-ups are essential to keep your treatment progressing smoothly. If you’re traveling, ask about virtual consultations to stay connected with your orthodontic care team.
9. FAQs: Summer Orthodontic Care
Can I swim with braces?
Yes, swimming is safe with braces, but always wear a mouthguard for contact sports.
What if I miss an appointment?
Contact us as soon as possible to reschedule and keep your treatment on track.
How do I handle discomfort on vacation?
Use orthodontic wax and over-the-counter pain relievers as needed, and contact us if pain persists.
10. About Coombs Orthodontics & How to Reach Us
At Coombs Orthodontics, Dr. Cory Coombs and our dedicated team provide 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.
Contact us today:
Coombs Orthodontics
940 Central Park Dr., Suite 106
Steamboat Springs, CO 80487
Phone: (970) 870-9200
Website: https://coombsorthoco.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, Coombs Orthodontics is here to help you smile confidently all summer long.
