I Song Orthodontics | Berkeley, CA
As summer winds down and school supplies get stocked, it’s also time to prepare your child’s smile for the new school year, especially if they’re wearing braces. At I Song Orthodontics, we’re here to help students in Albany and Berkeley head back to class with confidence, comfort, and a clear plan for caring for their braces throughout the day.
Here are our top orthodontic tips for a smooth school year with braces!
Create a Braces-Ready Backpack Kit
Children with braces can encounter minor issues during the day, such as food getting stuck in brackets, pokey wires, or loose rubber bands. A simple orthodontic care kit can help your child stay prepared and comfortable at school.
What to include:
- Orthodontic wax
- Travel-sized toothbrush & fluoride toothpaste
- Floss threaders or dental picks
- Extra rubber bands (if applicable)
- A compact mirror
- Lip balm or oral rinse (optional)
This kit fits easily into a pencil case or backpack pocket and can help your child handle braces challenges discreetly and independently.
Plan Braces-Friendly School Meals
School lunch should be nutritious and braces-safe. Avoid hard, sticky, or chewy foods that could damage brackets or wires. Here are some easy and safe lunch ideas for kids with braces:
- Soft sandwiches (tuna, turkey, egg salad)
- Yogurt, cottage cheese, or applesauce
- Thinly sliced fruits (bananas, melons, grapes)
- Soft-cooked pasta or rice dishes
- Steamed vegetables or mashed potatoes
Avoid foods like:
- Popcorn
- Raw carrots or apples (unless sliced very thin)
- Hard chips
- Sticky candies like taffy or caramel
If your child buys lunch at school, review menu options in advance to help them make informed choices.
Stay Consistent with Orthodontic Checkups
It’s easy for schedules to fill up once school starts, but maintaining regular orthodontic appointments is essential. At I Song Orthodontics, we work with families in Berkeley, CA, to offer flexible scheduling that fits around school hours and extracurriculars.
These checkups help us adjust your child’s treatment plan and make sure their smile is progressing as planned.
Build Confidence with Positive Encouragement
Kids (especially tweens and teens) can sometimes feel self-conscious about wearing braces at school. Support them with reassurance that braces are temporary and very common.
Let your child know:
- Many of their classmates also have braces
- Braces are a smart step toward a confident, lifelong smile
- It’s okay to ask a teacher or nurse for help if something feels off during the day
Encouragement from home goes a long way in helping your child feel proud of their smile-in-progress.
Kick Off the School Year With a Smile!
Starting a new school year with braces doesn’t have to be stressful. With a little preparation, the right tools, and regular checkups, your child can stay on track with their treatment—and feel confident every day.
At I Song Orthodontics, we’re here to support your family throughout the school year and beyond. Whether you’re in Albany or Berkeley, CA, our team is committed to making orthodontic care as easy and effective as possible.
Ready to book your back-to-school checkup or have questions about braces care? Contact us today and let’s make this your child’s best school year yet!