Starting the school year with braces or Invisalign® can feel like picking up an extra class, only this one’s all about your smile. Dr. Richard McDermott and the team at McDermott Orthodontics know how quickly that pace can challenge even the best brushing and flossing habits. A little planning goes a long way in keeping your orthodontic care on track. First up, let’s talk about lunch ideas that play nice with brackets and trays.
Lunch Strategies That Make the Grade
Think of lunchtime as a pop quiz for your braces or Invisalign®, where you already know the answers if you pick the right foods. Between Fox High School’s cafeteria pizza, Seckman’s chicken patty sandwiches, and the temptation of vending machine snacks, it’s easy to grab something crunchy, sticky, or too tough on your teeth without thinking twice.
Here’s how to pass lunch with braces-friendly flying colors:
- Go soft, not soggy – Pasta, mac and cheese, or soft sandwiches are easy wins.
- Fruit that plays nice – Opt for bananas, berries, or applesauce instead of biting into a whole apple.
- Swap the crunch – Pretzels dipped in hummus, soft tortilla wraps, or muffins beat hard chips every time.
- Warm comforts – Soup, mashed potatoes, or chili can be both filling and gentle on braces.
And when you’re grabbing lunch outside of school, remember “soft and satisfying” to keep your orthodontic care on track.
Making a few smart swaps can keep your smile safe and your stomach happy. Next up, let’s put together a backpack emergency kit so you’re ready for any orthodontic curveball school throws your way.
Your Orthodontic “Just in Case” Kit
A popped wire during biology or a bracket that starts bugging you halfway through Hazelwood Central Middle School’s pep rally doesn’t have to ruin your day. Dr. McDermott and the team at McDermott Orthodontics swear by keeping a few trusty tools close by so you’re always ready for anything school throws at you.
Travel Toothbrush & Toothpaste
Sneak in a quick brush after lunch so you’re not sitting through math class with bits of leftover sandwich as your unwanted sidekick.
Floss Threaders or Interdental Brushes
Perfect for freeing those tiny cafeteria mysteries that somehow find their way between your brackets.
Orthodontic Wax
Your secret weapon when a bracket starts rubbing; it’s like putting a cozy sweater on your braces!
Compact Mirror
A lifesaver for spotting lettuce before it makes its way into yearbook photos.
Mini Mouthwash
A quick swish before heading to band practice or drama rehearsal keeps things fresh and your confidence high.
Keep this kit stashed in your bag or locker, and orthodontic curveballs won’t stand a chance. Up next, let’s talk about how to keep your after‑school activities running without interrupting your orthodontic care.
After‑School Activities Without the Braces Blues
Kids in Arnold and Florissant know that after‑school hours are prime time. Even with braces or Invisalign®, you’re still front and center (orthodontics is just your opening act). Dr. McDermott and the McDermott Orthodontics crew have a few clever plays to keep your smile in the game.
Suit Up With a Mouthguard
Game day without a mouthguard? That’s like showing up to the field without cleats. A custom fit keeps your teeth, braces, and winning streak safe from surprise tackles or wild elbows.
Snack Like a Pro
Ditch the sticky granola bars that glue themselves to brackets. Go for soft banana bread, squeezable applesauce, or a cup of pudding for a quick, braces‑friendly refuel between drills.
Hydrate Like You Mean It
Sports drinks may look tempting on the sidelines, but plain water is your real MVP. It rinses away post‑practice gunk and keeps brackets squeaky‑clean.
Time Your Tune‑Ups
Got a big game, concert, or competition? Schedule your adjustment a few days ahead so your mouth isn’t adapting to fresh wires while you’re trying to nail your big moment.
When your after‑school schedule is packed, keeping your orthodontic care on point just takes a few smart swaps. Up next: how to survive and thrive when something unexpected happens with your braces in the middle of the school day.
Quick Fixes for the Unexpected
Orthodontic surprises have a way of picking the worst possible moment to show up.
If a bracket comes loose, cover it with orthodontic wax from your kit to keep it from rubbing, then finish out the day before calling McDermott Orthodontics for a quick repair.
For Invisalign® wearers, food stuck under your trays can be distracting—slip them out, rinse with water, and give them a quick brush if you have time. If you can’t, swish with water until you can get to your toothbrush.
Call McDermott Orthodontics right away if a wire is poking painfully, a bracket has completely fallen off, or your aligner is cracked. Small issues like minor food traps or a slightly loose wire can usually wait until your next visit.
A little calm thinking keeps you in the game until the real fix. Up next, let’s take a look at how parents can play an all‑star role in keeping their student’s orthodontic game strong from homeroom to homework.
Helping Your Student Stay on Track
Parents, you already juggle drop‑offs, permission slips, and the occasional “I forgot my gym shoes” moment. Adding orthodontic care into the mix doesn’t have to add to your to-do list. With a few easy habits, you can help your student keep their smile on track all day long:
- Pack a lunch that plays nice – Soft wraps, yogurt cups, pasta salad, and applesauce beat crunchy chips and sticky snacks every time.
- Spot‑check aligner wear – If your student’s on Invisalign®, a quick peek during dinner can confirm those trays are spending enough time where they belong.
- Restock the kit – Keep their orthodontic “just in case” bag loaded with wax, floss threaders, and a mini toothbrush.
- Team up with McDermott Orthodontics – Dr. McDermott and the team keep you looped in with progress updates and flexible scheduling that works around school and activities.
When home habits and McDermott Orthodontics work hand‑in‑hand, your student can tackle the school year knowing their smile is set to shine from homeroom to the final bell.
Extra Credit for Your Smile
Now that you know what to expect, keeping orthodontic care running smoothly can be easier than acing a pop quiz. Dr. McDermott and the friendly team at McDermott Orthodontics are here to make sure your student’s smile stays in step all year long. With two convenient locations in Florissant and Arnold, booking your free consultation is just a call away—because a confident smile is always worth making the honor roll!