McDonough Orthodontics | Murray, UT
A New School Year – A New Smile
As students head back to school in Murray, backpacks are packed, schedules are set—and routines are in full swing. But for families considering orthodontic treatment, there is one more smart addition to the school year checklist: a confident, healthy smile. At McDonough Orthodontics, we offer a variety of school-friendly orthodontic options designed to fit seamlessly into your student’s day.
Whether your child is navigating middle school or heading into their final year of high school, choosing the right orthodontic treatment can make a significant difference in their experience and success—both socially and academically.
Here’s how different treatment options compare, and how we help you find the best fit for your student’s needs and lifestyle.
Traditional Braces: Dependable and Effective
Best for: Students with moderate to complex alignment or bite issues.
Traditional metal braces are a time-tested solution that can correct everything from crowding and spacing to jaw alignment. Today’s braces are smaller, sleeker, and more comfortable than ever—plus, kids love customizing them with colorful bands to show off their school spirit.
Why they work for school:
- Always working—no need to remember to put them in
- Monthly checkups keep treatment progressing on schedule
- Built-in durability for active lifestyles
Things to consider:
- Students will need to avoid hard or sticky foods
- Oral hygiene routines must be extra thorough
- Occasional discomfort may occur after adjustments
Tip: Pack a braces care kit for school with wax, floss picks, and a toothbrush for quick touch-ups between classes.
Colorful Elastics Make Braces More Fun at School
Elastics are an important part of braces. Some help move the teeth and jaw into the right position, while others hold the wire in place and come in fun colors your child can choose at each visit.
For students, these colorful bands are a terrific way to add personality to their smile and feel more confident about wearing braces during school. Whether they pick their school colors, coordinate with holidays, or mix and match just for fun, it is a small choice that makes a big impact.
Why they are great for school:
- A fun way to express individuality or show school spirit
- Can help students feel more in control and positive about treatment
- Something to look forward to at each appointment
Tip: Kids can plan their colors around events like spirit week, picture day, or homecoming!
Ceramic Braces: Discreet Yet Effective
Best for: Students who want a less noticeable treatment option.
Ceramic braces work the same way as metal braces but use clear or tooth-colored brackets that blend into the teeth. They offer the same impressive results but with a more subtle appearance—perfect for students who want a little more confidence during presentations, photos, or performances.
Why they work for school:
- Less visible than metal
- Effective for bite and alignment issues
- Fixed in place—no need to remember wear time
Things to consider:
- Brackets can stain without proper care
- Slightly more fragile than metal braces
Tip: Stick with water at school to avoid staining beverages like soda or dark juice.
Clear Aligners: Flexible and Nearly Invisible
Best for: Responsible students with mild to moderate orthodontic needs.
Clear aligners like Invisalign® are one of our most popular school-friendly orthodontic options at McDonough Orthodontics. These custom-made trays are virtually invisible, and your child can remove them for meals, sports, and special events. They are perfect for students with packed schedules and active social lives.
Why they work for school:
- Invisible in yearbook photos and everyday life
- No dietary restrictions—just remove them before eating
- Easy brushing and flossing
Things to consider:
- Student must wear them 20–22 hours a day to stay effective
- Easy to lose if not stored in a case
Tip: Encourage students to keep a labeled aligner case in their backpack and build wear time into their routine (like after lunch or gym class).
Retainers: For Post-Treatment or Minor Shifts
Best for: Students who’ve finished treatment or need minor touch-ups.
Retainers are not just for after braces, they can also help correct small gaps or maintain alignment during growing years. Depending on your child’s needs, they may wear them part-time or overnight.
Why they work for school:
- Easy to manage once habits are in place
- Usually worn at home or overnight
- Helps protect their beautiful new smile
Things to consider:
- A student can misplace them during meals or activities
- May require occasional replacement
Tip: Label the case with your child’s name and school info—just in case it ends up in the lost-and-found!
How to Choose the Best School-Friendly Orthodontic Options for Your Student
At McDonough Orthodontics, we understand that every student is unique. There are students who need a treatment that’s minimal maintenance. Others want flexibility and discretion. We will help you compare all the school-friendly orthodontic options available and choose the one that best fits your child’s smile goals, personality, and school schedule.
Whether it is braces or aligners, we create a plan that sets your student up for success—without disrupting their routine.
Start This School Year with a Smile
Starting orthodontic treatment during the school year is a smart move. School routines help students stay on track with wear time, hygiene, and appointments—and the sooner they begin, the more progress they can see by next summer.
Contact McDonough Orthodontics in Murray, Utah today to schedule a consultation and explore the best school-friendly orthodontic options for your child. We are here to help your student smile with confidence every step of the way.