Your child returns to school after winter break sporting a stunning new smile, confidently flashing their newly straightened teeth to friends they haven’t seen in weeks. What seemed impossible before Thanksgiving is suddenly very achievable when you understand the strategic advantage of starting orthodontic treatment during the December holidays. Winter break offers a unique window that combines time away from academic pressures with the recovery period needed to adjust to new appliances, making it one of the smartest times of year to begin the journey toward a healthier, more attractive smile.
At Lazzara Orthodontics, Dr. John Lazzara and Dr. Amy Poblenz help families across Jacksonville Beach, Neptune Beach, and Atlantic Beach understand why orthodontic treatment during winter break sets students up for success. Both doctors completed a 3-year orthodontic residency program beyond dental school and are Diplomates of the American Board of Orthodontics, making the practice one of the few orthodontic facilities in northeast Florida with two board-certified doctors on staff.
Why Winter Break Works for Orthodontic Treatment
Starting orthodontic treatment during winter break provides distinct advantages that other times of year simply cannot match. Students have roughly two weeks away from school, giving them time to adjust to new sensations and learn proper care techniques without the added stress of homework, exams, or social activities.
The initial adjustment period for both braces and clear aligners typically lasts three to five days. During this time, patients may experience mild discomfort, difficulty eating certain foods, and a slight change in speech patterns. Winter break allows your child to work through these temporary challenges at home, where they can rest, eat soft foods, and practice speaking with their new appliances without worrying about classroom presentations or cafeteria meals.
Additionally, scheduling flexibility during December makes it easier to attend follow-up appointments if adjustments are needed. Rather than pulling students out of school for orthodontic visits, families can use their vacation time to ensure treatment starts smoothly.
Treatment Options That Fit Your Family’s Schedule
Modern orthodontics offers multiple approaches to straightening teeth, each with distinct benefits for students starting treatment during winter break.
Traditional metal braces are highly effective for complex alignment issues. These brackets and wires work continuously to guide teeth into the proper position. The initial placement appointment takes approximately one to two hours, after which students need about a week to fully adapt to the sensation of brackets against their lips and cheeks.
Ceramic braces offer the same effectiveness as metal braces but with tooth-colored brackets that blend with natural enamel. This option appeals to image-conscious teenagers who want straighter teeth without the highly visible appearance of traditional metal hardware.
Clear aligners, including Invisalign and 3M Clarity, offer a nearly invisible treatment option. According to the American Association of Orthodontists, most patients should wear their clear aligners for 18-20 hours per day, removing them only for meals and brushing. Winter break gives students time to establish this wearing schedule and develop the discipline needed for successful clear aligner treatment.
Each treatment type requires different care routines and lifestyle adjustments. Starting during winter break allows families to master these routines before the spring semester begins.
Managing Initial Discomfort and Dietary Changes
The first few days with any orthodontic appliance may involve some tenderness and adjustments to eating. Teeth may feel sore as they begin shifting, and lips and cheeks need time to adapt to new hardware.
During this adjustment period, soft foods become essential. Options that work well include:
- Scrambled eggs: easy to chew and packed with protein to support healing tissues.
- Smoothies: blend fruits, vegetables, and protein powder for complete nutrition without chewing.
- Pasta dishes: soft noodles with mild sauces require minimal jaw effort.
- Yogurt: provides calcium for strong teeth while being gentle on tender gums.
- Mashed potatoes: filling comfort food that requires no chewing.
Winter break often includes family gatherings with a variety of foods, making it easier to find soft alternatives. Students can experiment with different foods at home before returning to school cafeterias where choices may be more limited. This practice period builds confidence in making wise food selections that protect orthodontic appliances while maintaining proper nutrition.
Most patients find that discomfort decreases significantly after the first week. By starting treatment in December, students can return to school in January already comfortable with their appliances and confident in managing their life with braces.
Building Confidence Before Returning to School
Beyond the physical adjustment period, winter break provides psychological benefits for students beginning orthodontic treatment. Time away from peer groups allows young patients to become familiar with their new appearance before returning to the school environment.
Students can practice their new oral hygiene routines privately, learning to brush effectively around brackets or to properly insert and remove clear aligners. They can also practice speaking clearly with their appliances, working through any initial speech changes without the pressure of classroom participation.
For families considering teen braces or clear aligners, winter break offers the perfect trial period. By the time school resumes, wearing orthodontic appliances feels normal rather than novel, reducing self-consciousness and allowing students to focus on their education rather than their teeth.
Start Your Orthodontic Journey at Lazzara Orthodontics
Winter break is more than just time off from school. It is a strategic window for beginning orthodontic treatment that sets students up for lasting success. At Lazzara Orthodontics, we help families throughout Jacksonville Beach, Neptune Beach, and Atlantic Beach maximize this opportunity with flexible scheduling and comprehensive treatment plans.
Dr. Lazzara earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from LSU School of Dentistry in 1996 and completed his Master of Science degree in orthodontics at St. Louis University. Dr. Poblenz graduated from Nova Southeastern University with her DMD in 2009, completed a craniofacial research fellowship working alongside plastic surgeons, and earned her Master of Science degree and specialty certification in Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics from Nova Southeastern University in 2012. We also work with most major insurance providers to maximize your benefits and offer financing options that fit your family’s budget. Contact our Jacksonville Beach office today to schedule a consultation and discover why winter break is the perfect time to invest in your child’s smile.
