Medically reviewed by Dr. Boris Pinhasov, DDS – American Board of Orthodontics Diplomate | 20+ Years Experience | Last Updated: March 2026
Summer with braces does not have to mean missing out on fun. With a few smart adjustments to your routine, you can enjoy barbecues, beach trips, pool days, and vacations while keeping your orthodontic treatment on track. The key is protecting your braces from damage, staying hydrated, and choosing the right foods. Whether you are heading to a summer camp or a family road trip, these practical tips from Dr. Boris Pinhasov, DDS – a Board-Certified Orthodontist and ABO Diplomate in Queens – will help you enjoy every moment of the season.
Stay Hydrated and Protect Your Mouth
Dehydration is one of the biggest summer risks for braces wearers. A dry mouth creates an environment where bacteria thrive, increasing your risk of cavities and gum irritation around brackets and wires. Carry a water bottle everywhere and aim for at least eight glasses per day – more if you are active outdoors. Avoid sugary sports drinks, sodas, and lemonade, which leave sticky residue on brackets. If plain water gets boring, try infusing it with sliced cucumber, strawberries, or mint for flavor without the sugar.
Summer Foods to Enjoy and Avoid
Summer cookouts are full of temptation, but many favorites are perfectly safe for braces. Soft grilled chicken, watermelon slices (cut off the rind), cooked vegetables, pasta salads, and yogurt-based treats are all great choices. You can also enjoy smoothies, soft ice cream, and popsicles – just avoid biting directly into them.
However, some classic summer foods can break brackets or bend wires. Avoid corn on the cob (cut kernels off instead), whole apples (slice them first), hard pretzels, popcorn, taffy, caramel, and ice cubes. Sticky candies like saltwater taffy are especially risky. One broken bracket can set your treatment timeline back by weeks.
Sports and Outdoor Activities
If you play summer sports – basketball, soccer, swimming, skateboarding, or anything with contact risk – a mouthguard is essential. An orthodontic mouthguard is designed to fit over brackets and wires, providing cushioning without putting pressure on your hardware. Dr. Pinhasov recommends custom-fit orthodontic mouthguards for patients who play contact sports, as they offer significantly better protection than boil-and-bite versions.
Swimming pools are generally safe, but be careful with diving and rough play. A direct hit to the face can damage brackets, cut your lips against the wires, and cause serious discomfort. Always be mindful of your mouth during physical activities.
Vacation and Travel Tips
Traveling with braces requires a little extra preparation. Pack an orthodontic travel kit that includes a toothbrush, fluoride toothpaste, floss threaders or a water flosser, orthodontic wax, and a small mirror. If a wire pokes your cheek while you are away from home, orthodontic wax can provide temporary relief until you can visit your orthodontist.
If you are traveling for more than a week, schedule your appointments before and after your trip so you do not miss any adjustments. Contact BP Smiles before your vacation to make sure your braces are in good shape for the road.
Maintain Your Oral Hygiene Routine
Summer schedules get hectic, and it is easy to let brushing and flossing slide when you are out late or sleeping in. But skipping your oral hygiene routine even for a day can lead to plaque buildup around brackets, white spots on enamel, and swollen gums. Brush after every meal – or at minimum twice a day – and floss each night. An interdental brush can help clean around brackets and under wires where regular floss cannot reach.
Schedule a Summer Consultation at BP Smiles
Whether you are starting treatment or already wearing braces, summer is a great time for a check-up. Dr. Boris Pinhasov and the team at BP Smiles Orthodontics in Queens, NY are here to help you stay comfortable and on track all season long. Schedule your consultation today and enjoy a worry-free summer with a confident smile.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I swim with braces?
Yes, swimming is perfectly safe with braces. Pool water and salt water will not damage your brackets or wires. Just avoid rough play or diving in shallow areas where you could hit your face. Rinse your mouth with fresh water after swimming in a chlorinated pool.
What should I do if a bracket breaks during vacation?
Apply orthodontic wax over the broken bracket to prevent it from irritating your cheek or gums. Avoid eating hard or sticky foods, and contact your orthodontist as soon as possible to schedule a repair. If a wire is poking, you can use a clean pencil eraser to gently push it flat against your tooth.
Are popsicles and ice cream safe for braces?
Soft ice cream and popsicles are fine, but avoid biting directly into them – let them melt slightly first. Stay away from ice cream with hard mix-ins like nuts, toffee chips, or frozen candy pieces. Sugar-free options are even better for minimizing cavity risk around brackets.
How often should I brush my teeth with braces in the summer?
Brush at least twice a day, ideally after every meal and snack. Summer activities often mean more snacking and sugary drinks, so keeping up with brushing is especially important. Carry a travel toothbrush so you can clean your teeth even when you are away from home.
Disclaimer
Medically reviewed by Dr. Boris Pinhasov, Board-Certified Orthodontist.
This content is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please consult a qualified healthcare provider for personalized recommendations.
