Back to school time means schedules, sports, homework and all the things families navigate together including their orthodontic appointments. For braces treatment plans it is important to have regular adjustment and checks (usually every 4-8 weeks on average). For Invisalign aligner treatment plans, regular checks are less frequent but equally as important (usually every 8-12 weeks on average). Regular appointments are needed to monitor the movement of teeth towards the treatment goals and complete the next steps or adjustments needed to get there. It is also important to check the care of the braces and the dental health that can be affected by oral appliances.
School is out and summer has begun!. Whether you are continuing with academics and lessons through the summer or starting new adventures, routines can change. Modification to regular schedules can affect braces care, habits, and consistent wear or removable appliances (like Invisalign aligners, rubber bands on braces or retainers). Be sure to keep up with consistent wear and care of your orthodontic treatment and retention plan to keep that smile the best version it can be!
Winter activities make the cold weather season pass with a smile! Be sure to keep warm this Minnesota season and keep those retainers safe in their cases when not wearing them. They can get lost in the pockets of coats, snow pants and all the gear bags! Leaving aligners or retainers in cold vehicles can also make them brittle and more likely to break.
October is National Orthodontic Health Month (NOHM). The observance is in part a celebration of healthy, beautiful smiles and the benefits of orthodontic treatment – but also, an opportunity to focus on the importance of good oral health, especially for orthodontic patients and those who are interested in treatment.
