Start the School Year Right: Elevated Ortho's Back‑to‑School Smile Checklist
What to pack in your backpack for braces or aligners to keep your smile on track.
Table of Contents
Introduction
Meet Dr. Don Montano and the Elevated Ortho Team
Why a School Smile Kit Is Essential for Students
Must‑Have Essentials for Every Braces or Aligners Backpack
Snack Smarts: School Foods That Protect Your Progress
On-the-Go Hygiene: Quick Fixes Between Classes
Surviving Sports and Lunch Breaks—Protect Your Smile
When Trouble Strikes: Emergency Steps for Students
How Elevated Ortho Supports Your School-Year Journey
Conclusion: A Smile-Ready Year Starts with Preparedness
Frequently Asked Questions
Introduction
Back-to-school season isn't just about new supplies and fresh schedules—if you're getting
braces or starting
Invisalign®, it's also about
getting your smile game-ready. Busy days, long classes, extra-curriculars, and late-night study sessions can derail orthodontic progress if you're not prepared.
At
Elevated Ortho in Bakersfield,
Dr. Don Montano and his team are offering a guide to help students stay on track—literally. With over 35 years of orthodontic experience, a 5-star reputation, and 1,010+ reviews, we're excited to help you hit the ground running this school year.
In this checklist-style guide, you'll find everything you need to keep your aligners fresh, your
brackets safe, and your
smile shining from morning bell to bus ride home.
Meet Dr. Don Montano and the Elevated Ortho Team
When it comes to creating confident, healthy smiles in Bakersfield, few names are as trusted as
Dr. Don Montano. With over
35 years of orthodontic experience, Dr. Montano has built a reputation for excellence, compassion, and truly personalized care. As the founder of
Elevated Ortho, his mission has always been to deliver not just straighter teeth—but
amazing experiences and lifelong results for every patient.
Why Families Trust Dr. Montano
Expertise That Spans Generations: Many of our patients are second-generation smiles—kids whose parents were treated by Dr. Montano decades ago.
A True Community Partner: From supporting school events to attending local sports games, Dr. Montano stays connected with the families he serves.
Innovative and Modern: While his experience is unmatched, his methods continually evolve. Dr. Montano utilizes cutting-edge technology and modern treatments, such as Invisalign and
digital smile planning, to achieve precise, comfortable, and efficient results.
The Elevated Ortho Team
It's not just Dr. Montano who makes the difference—our entire team is built around kindness, professionalism, and fun. We understand the importance of caring for students with busy lives, and we work closely with parents and teens to create treatment plans that
integrate into school life, rather than disrupting it.
From front desk flexibility to knowledgeable assistants and smile coaches who cheer you on, our team is your orthodontic support system—every day, all year long.
Why a School Smile Kit Is Essential for Students
Whether you're wearing braces or clear aligners like Invisalign®, staying on top of your smile at school requires more than just brushing at home. Busy hallways, quick lunches, sports practices, and after-school clubs can all throw off your routine—and that's where a well-packed
School Smile Kit comes in.
At
Elevated Ortho, we've seen firsthand how a little preparation goes a long way. Students who keep a small kit in their backpack are more likely to stay on track, avoid emergencies, and feel confident throughout the school day.
Why Every Student Needs One
Prevents Buildup & Bad Breath: Food and bacteria collect quickly around braces and inside aligners. A quick brush or rinse between classes keeps your breath fresh and your mouth healthy.
Protects Your Appliances: Lost aligners, popped brackets, and poking wires are more common when you're unprepared. Having the right tools helps you handle small issues fast.
Supports Confidence: You'll feel better knowing you're prepared for anything—whether it's lunchtime lettuce in your braces or a last-minute presentation in class.
Fits Right in Your Backpack or Locker
Your Smile Kit doesn't have to be bulky. A small zipper pouch or travel case is all you need. We recommend one that's water-resistant, easy to clean, and clearly labeled so it doesn't get tossed or left behind.
At your next visit to
Elevated Ortho, ask us to help you build or refresh your School Smile Kit. We'll even show you how to use each item like a pro.
Must‑Have Essentials for Every Braces or Aligners Backpack
Having the right tools on hand during the school day makes all the difference in maintaining your orthodontic progress—and your confidence. At Elevated Ortho, we recommend building a simple, portable Smile Kit filled with items that help you stay clean, comfortable, and ready for anything. Here's what we suggest every student carry in their backpack:
🦷 Elevated Ortho’s Recommended Smile Kit Checklist
| Item | Why It's Essential |
|---|---|
| Travel toothbrush | Quick clean-up after lunch or snacks to prevent buildup around brackets or aligners. |
| Fluoride toothpaste | Keeps your enamel strong and helps remove food particles after meals. |
| Orthodontic floss picks | Easier than regular floss—great for cleaning between tight spaces, wires, or trays. |
| Mouthwash (travel-sized) | A quick rinse when brushing isn’t possible—great after snacks or sports. |
| Braces wax | Relieves irritation from brackets or poking wires. |
| Aligner case | Never wrap aligners in a napkin! A sturdy case keeps them clean and safe during meals. |
| Mini mirror | Handy for checking your smile before a presentation or performance. |
| Invisalign® cleaning crystals or mild soap | Keeps trays fresh and clear. Avoids odor or discoloration. |
| Small hand sanitizer | Clean your hands before touching your mouth or trays. |
📝 Bonus Tips:
- Keep your kit in a dedicated pocket in your backpack so it's easily accessible.
- Label everything, especially your aligner case, so nothing gets lost or mixed up.
- Check your supplies
every weekend and replenish them as needed.
Whether you're wearing Invisalign® or traditional braces, having a Smile Kit gives you the freedom to care for your teeth without sacrificing time, comfort, or performance in your school activities.
Snack Smarts: School Foods That Protect Your Progress
Let's face it—lunchtime is often the highlight of the school day. But if you're wearing braces or aligners, it's important to make food choices that are not only tasty but also
safe for your smile.
The wrong snack can delay your treatment, damage your appliances, or leave embarrassing leftovers behind.
At Elevated Ortho, we want you to
enjoy your meals without sacrificing your progress. With a few
smart swaps and some planning, you can
snack confidently and stay on track with your treatment.
🍎 Best Braces-Friendly Foods for School
Stick with soft, non-sticky options that are easy to chew and gentle on brackets and wires:
- Yogurt cups or smoothies
- Mashed avocado on soft bread
- Sliced bananas, grapes, or melon
- Scrambled eggs in a thermos
- Soft cheese sticks or cubes
- Deli meats (rolled up or in soft wraps)
- Applesauce or fruit pouches
- Pasta salad (with small, soft veggies)
🧃 Smart Snacks for Aligner Wearers
Because aligners should be removed during meals and snacks, it's especially important to:
- Brush before reinserting trays
- Avoid sugary drinks that can lead to staining or cavities
- Choose water as your go-to beverage
Aligner users can enjoy the same soft, braces-safe snacks—just be sure to store your trays in their case and brush or rinse before putting them back in.
❌ Foods to Avoid
| Food Type | Examples to Skip |
|---|---|
| Sticky foods | Caramel, gum, fruit snacks |
| Crunchy snacks | Hard pretzels, chips, popcorn |
| Chewy textures | Bagels, crusty bread, beef jerky |
| Whole raw fruits | Apples, carrots—unless sliced or softened |
| Soda or sugary drinks | Especially when wearing aligners or after braces adjustments |
A good rule of thumb?
If it can break, stick to, or pull on your braces—it's best left out of the lunchbox.
Your smile is on a journey, and every snack is a step. With smart food choices, you'll keep your treatment moving and your confidence high—all year long.
On-the-Go Hygiene: Quick Fixes Between Classes
Busy school days don't always allow for a full brushing and flossing session—but that doesn't mean your smile has to suffer. With a few simple habits and tools, you can maintain fresh breath, clean brackets, and clear aligners—even between classes or during after-school activities.
At
Elevated Ortho, we recommend students learn a few
quick hygiene hacks that keep their smiles in check without needing a sink or mirror every time.
🧼 Quick Braces-Friendly Hygiene Tips
Rinse After Every Meal or Snack: Even if you can't brush, swishing with water helps remove food particles and bacteria.
Use Floss Picks: Keep orthodontic flossers or soft picks in your Smile Kit to quickly clean between teeth when you're short on time.
Brush When You Can: Try brushing after lunch if your schedule allows—even just 60 seconds of brushing helps prevent buildup.
Chew Sugar-Free Gum (Only if Approved): Some patients can safely chew orthodontist-approved gum that stimulates saliva and reduces plaque. Ask Dr. Montano if it's okay for you.
🫧 Invisalign® Hygiene Hacks
Aligner wearers face a different challenge: keeping trays clean and odor-free while away from home.
Rinse Trays with Cool Water every time you remove them—especially after meals or snacks.
Never Eat with Aligners In, even quick snacks. Food can stain trays and trap bacteria.
Carry Cleaning Crystals or Foaming Cleaners for occasional deep cleans during long days.
✨ Don't Forget These Extras
- A travel-sized mirror can help with food checks before class.
- Breath spray or sugar-free mints can help you feel fresh and confident.
The key is consistency. By building quick, easy habits into your school day, you'll stay ahead of plaque and irritation—ensuring a healthier, smoother treatment.
Surviving Sports and Lunch Breaks—Protect Your Smile
From recess games and lunchtime laughs to competitive sports and after-school practice, your teeth are often at risk during the most active parts of your school day. Whether you're wearing braces or aligners, knowing how to protect your smile in these moments is just as important as brushing.
At
Elevated Ortho, we help students understand how to navigate physical activity and lunchtime with smart, practical solutions that keep their treatment moving forward without interruption.
🏈 Game Day Guidelines: Braces + Sports
If you wear braces, contact sports or high-energy play can pose a risk for injuries like:
- Broken brackets
- Poking wires
- Cuts to the lips and cheeks
Your defense? A custom or braces-safe mouthguard. Unlike regular guards, these are designed to fit over brackets and absorb impact without disrupting your appliances. Dr. Montano can help you find the right fit—so you stay protected and confident on the field.
🥅 Aligners & Athletics
Playing sports with Invisalign® is easier in many ways—you simply remove your trays during play.
But here's what to remember:
- Always store them in your case during games or practices—never in your pocket or napkin.
- Rinse and reinsert as soon as possible after the activity.
- Wear a mouthguard if there's a risk of impact, even without aligners in.
🥪 Lunchtime Habits That Help
Lunch is when most orthodontic mishaps happen. Whether it's biting into the wrong sandwich or forgetting to brush after, here's how to stay in control:
- Cut food into smaller pieces to avoid biting into hard or chewy textures.
- Bring your own lunch if your school menu isn't braces-friendly.
- Brush or rinse after lunch—even 30 seconds can make a difference!
Being prepared for meals and sports doesn't just protect your teeth—it protects your time, money, and orthodontic progress.
When Trouble Strikes: Emergency Steps for Students
Even with the best preparation, accidents can happen. A popped bracket, misplaced aligner, or a wire poking your cheek can derail your day if you're not sure what to do. The good news? With a calm approach and a few quick steps, most orthodontic issues can be addressed until you return to the office.
At Elevated Ortho, we empower our student patients to feel confident managing minor mishaps—because the sooner you act, the better your outcome.
🛠️ Quick Fixes for Braces Problems
| Issue | What to Do Right Away |
|---|---|
| Loose bracket | Cover with orthodontic wax if it's irritating. Avoid hard foods and call our office. |
| Poking wire | Use wax or a pencil eraser to gently push it flat. Call if it continues to bother you. |
| Broken or lost rubber band | Don't panic—just bring it up at your next visit or call for a replacement. |
| Food stuck in brackets | Use your floss pick or rinse with water. Keep a mirror handy for easier cleanup. |
😬 Aligner Issues at School
- Lost tray? Keep your previous aligner and call us immediately. We'll guide you on the next steps.
- Cracked tray? Stop wearing it and give us a call—we'll advise whether to move on or replace it.
Forgot to wear it? Pop it back in as soon as you can. One missed period won't ruin treatment, but don't let it become a habit.
📞 When to Call Elevated Ortho
Call our office at 661-665-7600 if:
- You're in discomfort
- Something is broken
- You're unsure how to handle a situation
- You've lost or damaged an aligner
We offer flexible appointments and fast support—so you never feel stuck or alone when things go sideways.
How Elevated Ortho Supports Your School-Year Journey
Between class changes, extracurriculars, homework, and weekend tournaments, students don't have time for delays, surprises, or stress when it comes to their smiles. That's where
Elevated Ortho steps in—not just as your orthodontist, but as your partner for a successful school year.
Led by
Dr. Don Montano, our team works hard to ensure every student can balance orthodontic care with a busy academic life. With
over 35 years of experience, we've perfected the art of student-friendly care that's flexible, supportive, and results-driven.
🎒 We Make It Easy to Stay on Track
After-School Appointments: We offer appointment times that fit into school hours or your after-class routine.
Flexible Rescheduling: Sports practice changed? No problem. We'll find a time that works for you.
Reminders & Check-Ins: We'll send you texts or email reminders so you never miss a step in your treatment.
Supportive Staff: From school forms to last-minute aligner replacements, our team is here to support you with whatever you need.
📍 A Local Office That Feels Like Home
Located right here in Bakersfield, we're part of your community—and we treat every patient like family. Our comfortable, modern office environment makes visits stress-free, and our friendly team is always ready to answer your questions.
Braces or aligners shouldn't get in the way of living your best life in school. Whether you're in band, on the court, or leading student council, our mission is to
elevate your smile—without holding you back.
Conclusion: A Smile-Ready Year Starts with Preparedness
At
Elevated Ortho, we believe every student deserves to walk into the school year feeling confident—not just about their classes, but also about their smile. Whether you're rocking traditional braces or discreet Invisalign® trays, your success starts with being prepared and supported every step of the way.
By packing your Smile Kit, choosing smart snacks, practicing quick hygiene routines, and knowing what to do when the unexpected happens, you're giving yourself the best chance at staying on track. And with
Dr. Don Montano and our trusted team on your side, you're never alone in the journey.
We've proudly helped thousands of students across
Bakersfield embrace treatment with ease—and we're ready to help you too. Let's make this school year your healthiest, happiest, most confident one yet.
📞
Call us at
661-665-7600 or visit
elevatedortho.com to schedule a consultation or ask how to build your custom Smile Kit.
At Elevated Ortho, we don't just straighten teeth—we elevate lives.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I pack in my Smile Kit for school?
Include a travel toothbrush, toothpaste, flossers, mouthwash, wax, aligner case, and hand sanitizer for on-the-go care.
Can I play sports with braces or Invisalign®?
Yes! Just be sure to wear a mouthguard that's designed for braces or remove your aligners and store them safely during play.
What if my aligner gets lost or damaged at school?
Contact us immediately. We'll guide you on whether to wear your previous tray or skip to the next one.
How do I handle lunchtime with braces?
Avoid hard, sticky, or crunchy foods. Choose soft snacks, such as yogurt, sandwiches on soft bread, or pasta.
Are school-day appointments available?
Absolutely. We offer flexible scheduling options to accommodate your school calendar and extracurricular activities.
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