Oh boy, summer is around the corner! Maybe it’s your very first one wearing braces, or maybe you’ve had them for a little while now. Either way, Icon Orthodontics presents The Official Summer Travel Guide: Braces Edition!
A Season for Travel
Having braces means being able to manage them when you’re on the go, and this is especially important if you’re away from home. You should always have a kit full of supplies when you’re on the road, as recommended by Dr. Sun and Dr. Sarpotdar:
- Orthodontic toothbrushes are designed especially for cleaning your teeth with braces, small enough to get into the nooks and crannies of your braces.
- If any of your brackets come loose, you should always keep extra elastic bands on you,
- You might have already used orthodontic wax a few times. It’s an excellent tool for helping with sharp edges of wires or other components.
- Interdental brushes are also useful for cleaning between brackets and wires.
- Floss threaders tend to be easier to use than traditional dental floss for patients with braces.
- If you’re concerned about hard-to-reach areas, a compact or dental mirror can help you see what you’re doing.
- Always have traveled-sized toothpaste and orthodontic mouthwash in your kit for cleaning.
When you’re putting these items together, consider your destination. For example, if you’re staying in a hotter climate like our own, consider heat exposure. You might avoid keeping your kit in direct sunlight or in a clear container where it’s exposed.
Traveling Smarter
These tips will prove useful regardless of where you’re going, whether it’s by car, plane, or ship!
- Stay Hydrated: Making sure you drink plenty of water is vital in general, but especially with your braces. Dry mouth can bring on a host of extra problems, plus it’s hardly comfortable.
- Use a Water Flosser: A water flosser can be a great machine for those on the go who want quick, thorough cleaning between visits to the hotel or restaurants.
- Protect Your Braces: If you’re playing any beach volleyball or other sports that could put your mouth at risk, wear a mouthguard. A custom one is best, but anything is better than no protection at all in high-contact sports.
- Keep an Eye on Kids: Kids, of course, require additional surveillance. With all of these tips, do your best to enforce them and make it fun when possible!
- Choose Braces-Friendly Foods: Summer treats should be easy on your braces, like frozen treats, soft fruits, yogurt, grilled vegetables, and fish. We know theme parks, in particular, are filled with sticky, rich foods—but try to resist the temptation and find tasty alternatives!
- Maintain Oral Hygiene: Brush and floss after every single meal using your travel kit, however, it is most convenient to you.
- Protect Your Braces at the Beach or Pool: Saltwater, sand, and chlorine can all cause some issues with your braces if overexposed, so consider wearing a mouthguard while swimming for additional protection.
- Rinse After Swimming: In addition to a mouthguard, always rinse your mouth after swimming. Chlorine can discolor your braces if it isn’t removed.
- Protect Your Lips: Your lips protect your teeth, so protect them too! Lip balm with SPF is the easiest way to do this.
- Protect Your Braces from Sun Exposure: Metal can get warm, so be aware of this if you have metal braces. Sticking to the shade or wearing a hat can help.
- Attend Orthodontic Appointments: Try your best to work around your travel schedule still to make time for your checkups at Icon Orthodontics. We can work with you to find openings and will do our best to accommodate you! Remember that these visits are a key element of your treatment.
- Remember the Goal: No matter how tough it gets, always bear in mind that braces are temporary and lead to a beautiful new smile. Push through any inconvenience with this destination in mind!
- Enjoy Yourself: But above all else, have a blast! We’re here to support you however we can to ensure that your summer break isn’t hindered by your orthodontic treatment. This means you can always contact us with questions or concerns.
A Well-Earned Break
Feel free to contact the Icon Orthodontics team if you have any further questions. The more details you share with our doctors about your summer plans, the more tailored our advice can be. For instance, if you’re traveling internationally, your concerns may differ from those of a domestic trip. We prioritize getting to know our patients individually to provide exceptional treatment and care. Our Surprise and Glendale offices can’t wait to welcome you!