Dallas Parents' Summer Survival Guide for Braces: Do's, Don'ts, and Smile-Safe Treats

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Summer in Dallas means outdoor adventures, frozen treats, and a break from the busy pace of school and work. But for those wearing braces, it also brings questions: What foods are safe? Can I swim or play sports? How do I stay on track during vacation?

At Ohlenforst Carney Orthodontics, Dr. Carney and her team are here to make sure your summer stays fun, relaxing, and smile-friendly. Whether you're heading to a backyard barbecue or off on a family trip, these summer do's, don'ts, and treat tips will help you protect your braces and keep your orthodontic treatment moving forward.

Summer Do's for Braces

1. Keep Your Oral Hygiene Routine Strong

  • Brush after every meal—especially after snacking on the go.

  • Floss daily with floss threaders or a water flosser to remove food around brackets.

  • Use fluoride mouthwash in the evening to keep your enamel strong.

2. Pack a Braces Travel Kit Keep a small bag with you when traveling that includes:

  • Orthodontic wax for irritation

  • A travel toothbrush and toothpaste

  • Floss and threaders

  • A small mirror

  • Over-the-counter pain relievers, just in case

3. Drink Plenty of Water

  • Water helps wash away food particles and keeps your mouth clean.

  • Avoid sugary sports drinks and sodas that can increase plaque buildup around brackets.

4. Wear a Mouthguard for Sports

  • If you’re playing contact sports or doing high-impact activities, wear a custom mouthguard to protect your braces and teeth.

  • Ask us about getting an orthodontic-specific mouthguard that fits over brackets and wires.

5. Stick to Your Appointments

  • Summer is a great time to catch up on appointments or start treatment.

  • If you're traveling, give us a heads up so we can adjust your schedule accordingly.

Summer Don'ts for Braces

1. Skip Sticky, Crunchy, or Chewy Foods Avoid summer favorites that can damage brackets or bend wires, including:

  • Corn on the cob (cut it off first!)

  • Caramel or taffy

  • Hard pretzels and popcorn

  • Ice (never chew it!)

2. Don’t Forget to Clean After Sweet Treats

  • Ice cream, lemonade, and popsicles are fun, but sugary residues can stick to brackets.

  • Always brush or at least rinse with water after enjoying a sweet snack.

3. Don’t Leave Your Braces Unprotected

  • Don’t go without a mouthguard during sports or biking.

  • Accidents can happen quickly—it's better to be safe.

4. Don’t Miss Your Appointments

  • Delaying adjustments or repairs can set back your treatment timeline.

  • If you need to reschedule, call us as soon as possible to stay on track.

Smile-Safe Summer Treats for Braces

You can still enjoy plenty of delicious foods while protecting your smile. Here are Dr. Carney’s top braces-friendly treats:

Cool Summer Snacks:

  • Yogurt or frozen yogurt (avoid dense, hard granola toppings)

  • Smoothies with soft fruits

  • Ice cream (avoid nuts or extra hard candy toppings)

  • Pudding or soft-serve

Fruits & Snacks:

  • Watermelon (seedless and sliced)

  • Bananas and seedless grapes

  • Applesauce

  • Soft cheese cubes

Hydrating Beverages:

  • Water with fruit slices (lemon, cucumber, or mint)

  • Milk or light smoothies

Your Dallas Orthodontic Experts

Dr. Carney and the team at Ohlenforst Carney Orthodontics are passionate about helping patients enjoy life while creating healthier, more confident smiles. If you're wearing braces this summer—or thinking about starting—we’re here to support you with customized care, helpful advice, and friendly encouragement.

Want to schedule an appointment or consultation before your summer vacation? Contact us here or call us at 972-503-0400!