School bells will be ringing before we know it, and here in Bismarck–Mandan, that means last-minute supply runs, new backpacks, and maybe even one more trip to the lake before summer waves goodbye. But if you or your child is sporting braces or aligners this year, there’s one more “back-to-school checklist” you’ll want to check off—your orthodontic one! At Feil Orthodontics, we know that a confident smile is the best accessory for the first day of school, so we’ve rounded up five quick, smile-saving tips to start the year right.
1. Stock Your Backpack with a “Smile Kit”
Between classes, lunch, and after-school activities, it’s easy for food to get caught in brackets or for aligners to go missing. Keep a little “smile kit” in your backpack: a travel toothbrush, toothpaste, floss threaders, orthodontic wax, and a small mirror. For our fellow North Dakotans who know how long winter days can be, a bottle of water is a must too—it helps keep your mouth clean and hydrated, especially in our dry climate.
2. Schedule a Pre-School Checkup
Before the school year ramps up, schedule a quick visit to Feil Orthodontics. We’ll make sure everything’s fitting and working the way it should, so you can focus on your homework and Friday night football games instead of a poking wire. Our office is right here in Bismarck, so whether you’re headed to Century, Legacy, Bismarck High, or Mandan, we’re just a quick trip away.
3. Practice Your “School Lunch Game Plan”
Packing a lunch or grabbing one in the cafeteria? Think braces-friendly! Soft fruits, yogurt, pasta salads, and string cheese are all safe bets. Skip the hard, sticky, or super crunchy snacks—they’re not worth a broken bracket. And if you’re an aligner wearer, remember to bring your case to lunch so you’re not tucking them in a napkin (trust us, the trash can has claimed too many aligners).
4. Gear Up for Sports and Activities
Whether you’re on the Braves, Demons, Patriots, or Sabers, a custom-fitted mouthguard should be part of your gear bag. It’s the best way to protect your teeth and orthodontic work during football, hockey, wrestling, and even marching band. Fall in North Dakota is full of activities, and a quick extra step now can save you a trip to the orthodontist later.
5. Set a Smile Routine
Summer can make us all a little relaxed about routines, but once school starts, it’s time to lock in a good morning and bedtime brushing and flossing habit. Set a reminder on your phone if you need to. A few extra minutes a day can make a big difference—and keep those braces or aligners working their magic so you can show off your best smile in the yearbook.
As the new school year kicks off, remember: a healthy smile is just as important as a sharp pencil and a sturdy backpack. From everyone at Feil Orthodontics, we wish all our Bismarck–Mandan students a fun, successful year ahead. And if you need a pre-school checkup or have questions about keeping your orthodontic treatment on track, give us a call—we’re here to help keep those smiles shining all year long.