Make the Most of Winter Break with Elevated Ortho: Begin Your Braces or Invisalign® Journey

Make the Most of Winter Break with Elevated Ortho: Begin Your Braces or Invisalign® Journey

Convenient Scheduling, Quick Adjustments, and a Confident Start to the New Year.

Table of Contents

Introduction

Meet Dr. Don Montano

Why Winter Break Is One of the Best Times to Start Orthodontic Treatment

Braces or Invisalign: Choosing the Right Winter Break Start

What Happens at Your First Winter Break Appointment

Winter Break Timeline: How Fast Can You Get Started

Top Picks: Ways to Use Winter Break to Stay Ahead

Holiday Activities with Braces or Aligners

Pro Tips for Comfort, Hygiene, and Staying on Track

Patient Spotlight: A Confident Start Before School Starts Back

Planning for Straight Teeth: Costs, Financing, and Smart Timing

Why Choose Elevated Ortho

Conclusion

Frequently Asked Questions


Introduction

Winter break gives families rare breathing room. With slower pace and open schedules, it's the ideal time to take care of things you put off. At Elevated Ortho, we see winter break as one of the best times to begin orthodontic treatment.


Dr. Don Montano and our team have helped Bakersfield families achieve healthy, confident smiles for over 35 years. We offer braces and Invisalign® and are known for advanced, friendly care. With a 5-star reputation and over 1010 reviews, we're proud to serve families across our community.


If you have been considering braces or aligners, winter break can be the perfect time to start. You can schedule your consultation more easily, start treatment without missing school, and use the downtime to get comfortable with new routines. In this guide, we will walk you through why this season is ideal, what to expect, and how to make the most of winter break so you can start the new year with momentum. Let's begin by introducing the expert who leads our practice.


Meet Dr. Don Montano

Dr. Montano has served Bakersfield with dedicated orthodontic care for more than three decades. Our team is passionate about helping every patient feel confident and informed from the first visit. We combine experience, modern technology, and personalized treatment planning so that your journey feels clear, comfortable, and exciting.


Winter break is a wonderful time to take that first step towards a great orthodontic experience. Now, let's explore why this specific season can make starting treatment especially convenient.


Why Winter Break Is One of the Best Times to Start Orthodontic Treatment

Many families assume orthodontic treatment must start during the summer, but winter break offers advantages that are easy to overlook. For many patients, it is actually more convenient than summer.

Here is why winter break is such a strong time to start:


More Flexible Scheduling

School drop-offs, sports practices, and after-school activities often pause during break. That makes it easier to schedule a consultation, start records, or even begin treatment without juggling multiple calendars.


Less School Disruption

Starting braces or Invisalign during a break means you do not have to leave school early for your first appointments. It also gives patients a chance to adjust to the feel of braces or aligners before returning to class.


Time to Settle Into New Habits

Orthodontic treatment comes with a few new routines, such as brushing more carefully, cleaning aligners, and choosing braces-friendly foods. Winter break gives patients time to build those habits without the pressure of a busy school day.


A Head Start on the New Year

Starting now means you are already progressing toward a healthier smile when the new year begins. For many patients, early progress is motivating, and it is encouraging to see change sooner rather than later.


A Great Window for Early Adjustments

Winter break makes it easier to attend a quick follow-up if needed and get support early. Next, let’s consider whether braces or Invisalign is right for your winter break start.


Braces or Invisalign: Choosing the Right Winter Break Start

Winter break is a great time to begin either option. The best choice depends on goals, lifestyle, and the type of tooth movement needed.


Braces

Braces are reliable, efficient, and excellent for correcting a wide range of orthodontic concerns. They are especially helpful for:

  • More complex bite correction
  • Significant crowding or spacing
  • Rotations that require precise control
  • Patients who prefer not to manage aligner wear time


Starting braces during winter break gives patients time to learn what foods to avoid and how to brush around brackets before returning to school.


Invisalign®

Invisalign® is a popular choice for patients who prefer a more discreet option. Aligners are removable, comfortable, and can fit well with busy routines. Invisalign can be a strong option for:

  • Teens who are responsible and consistent
  • Adults who want low-visibility treatment
  • Patients who prefer flexibility for eating and hygiene
  • Families who want fewer food restrictions


Winter break is a great time to start Invisalign because patients can get into the habit of consistent wear, build confidence removing and cleaning trays, and establish a routine before normal schedules resume. 

Now that you know your options, let’s walk through what your first appointment will look like.


What Happens at Your First Winter Break Appointment

Many families feel unsure about what starting treatment entails. Our process is designed to feel clear and simple.


Step 1: Consultation and Evaluation

We begin with an exam and discuss your goals. We assess tooth alignment, bite, and overall oral health. This appointment is also where we explore whether braces or Invisalign is the best fit.


Step 2: Records and Planning

If you move forward, we may take digital scans and images to build a customized plan. This helps us plan tooth movement precisely and predictably.


Step 3: Start Day

Start day looks different depending on treatment type:

  • For braces, brackets and wires are placed, and we review care instructions.
  • For Invisalign, we deliver aligners and review wear guidelines.


We also answer questions about comfort, eating, brushing, and what to expect in the first week.
Winter Break Timeline: How Fast Can You Get Started

Many families ask how quickly treatment can begin. While each case is unique, winter break often makes the process feel faster because schedules are more open.


A common winter break flow might look like this:

  • Week 1: Consultation and records
  • Week 2: Start treatment with braces or aligners (depending on case timing)
  • Week 3 and beyond: Routine check-ins and progress


For some patients, we can start quickly if timing aligns with records and treatment planning. The biggest factor is scheduling early enough in the break so there is room for planning and coordination. 


Top Picks: Ways to Use Winter Break to Stay Ahead

If you want to make the most of winter break and set yourself up for success, here are our top recommendations.


Top Pick 1: Book your consultation early

The earlier you schedule, the more flexibility you have in choosing your start day.


Top Pick 2: Use the break to master hygiene routines

Spend a few days building strong brushing habits. It makes the rest of treatment smoother.


Top Pick 3: Stock up on braces-safe foods

Soft foods for the first few days can make the transition more comfortable.


Top Pick 4: Set a wear-time routine for Invisalign

Create simple anchors like wearing aligners right after breakfast and brushing before putting them back in.


Top Pick 5: Use winter break downtime for confidence

Take progress photos, set smile goals, and celebrate starting treatment. Motivation matters. 


Holiday Activities with Braces or Aligners

Orthodontic treatment should not stop you from enjoying winter traditions. It just requires a little planning.


Braces and Holiday Foods

We recommend avoiding sticky and hard foods that can break brackets or bend wires. Holiday treats to watch for:

  • Caramels and taffy
  • Nuts and brittle
  • Hard candies
  • Crunchy pretzels


Braces-friendly options include:

  • Soft cookies
  • Mashed potatoes and casseroles
  • Soft breads
  • Yogurt and pudding
  • Cut fruit and softer snacks


Aligners and Holiday Events

Aligners give more flexibility, but consistency matters. Helpful tips include:

  • Bring your case to gatherings
  • Remove aligners before eating
  • Brush before putting them back in
  • Choose water as your main drink


With a simple plan, you can enjoy holiday meals while staying on track. To keep your progress going, try these pro tips for comfort and hygiene during your first week.


Pro Tips for Comfort, Hygiene, and Staying on Track

The first week can feel like an adjustment. These tips help patients feel confident quickly.


Comfort Tips

  • Expect mild soreness for a few days
  • Choose softer foods early
  • Use orthodontic wax if brackets irritate cheeks
  • Keep lips hydrated during dry winter weather


Hygiene Tips

  • Brush after meals when possible
  • Use interdental brushes for braces
  • Rinse with water if you cannot brush right away
  • Clean aligners daily if using Invisalign


Routine Tips

  • Keep a travel toothbrush in backpacks or purses
  • Set a reminder for aligner wear time
  • Track progress with small milestones


Patient Spotlight: A Confident Start Before School Starts Back

We often see patients who start during winter break return to school with more confidence than they expected. One teen patient was nervous about how braces would feel and worried about speaking at school. By starting during break, they had time to adjust at home, find their favorite soft foods, and learn a brushing routine that felt easy.


When school resumed, they felt prepared. The first big hurdle was already behind them. That is the hidden advantage of winter break. It gives patients a comfortable runway before daily life speeds up again.


Planning for Straight Teeth: Costs, Financing, and Smart Timing

Orthodontic treatment is a long-term investment. Winter break is a great time to plan thoughtfully.

Families often consider:

  • Treatment type and timeline
  • Payment plans and financing options
  • Insurance benefits and year-end resets
  • School calendars and upcoming events


Our team is here to help you understand the cost of treatment, what financing options are available, and how to choose a plan that fits your family. We believe financial clarity should be part of the orthodontic experience, not a barrier.


If you are considering starting soon, winter break provides a natural planning window. It is a time when you can make decisions calmly and start with confidence.


Why Choose Elevated Ortho

Families choose Elevated Ortho because:

  • Dr. Don Montano has 35+ years of orthodontic experience
  • We offer braces and Invisalign with customized treatment planning
  • We are trusted by Bakersfield families with 1010+ 5-star reviews
  • We provide a welcoming environment for kids, teens, and adults
  • We focus on clear communication and patient education
  • We help patients begin treatment with confidence and support


Conclusion

Winter break is more than a pause in the school calendar. It is an opportunity. It gives families time to focus on health goals, schedule appointments more easily, and start orthodontic treatment without the pressure of a full routine. If you have been thinking about braces or Invisalign, this season can be a great time to take the first step.


At Elevated Ortho, we make it easy to get started. Our team will guide you through your options, create a personalized plan, and help you begin treatment that fits your schedule. Starting during winter break can help you build habits early, adjust comfortably, and head into the new year already progressing toward a healthier, more confident smile.


To schedule your consultation, call 661-665-7600 or visit elevatedortho.com. We are excited to help you make the most of winter break and start your journey toward a smile you love.


Frequently Asked Questions

Is winter break really a good time to start braces?

Yes. Winter break often offers more flexible scheduling and a chance to adjust before school resumes.


Can I start Invisalign during winter break?

Yes. Winter break is a great time to establish consistent wear habits and build a routine.


Will braces hurt at first?

Most patients experience mild soreness for a few days. Soft foods and simple comfort steps help.


How long does it take to start treatment after a consultation?

It varies by patient, but winter break scheduling often allows a faster start timeline.


What should we do before the first appointment?

Bring questions, consider goals, and if you have insurance information, bring it so we can help plan.

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May require attachments (small, tooth-colored bumps) to assist in certain movements.