Traveling with braces requires a bit of extra preparation. Whether you're camping close to home or jetting off on an international trip, it's critical to make sure that you can adequately care for your teeth while away from home. If you have braces or will have them before your next vacation, use these tips below to prepare for your upcoming travels. 

A Guide to Traveling with Braces 

1. Schedule a Checkup Before Leaving

Visit your orthodontist before going out of town to make sure that the current status of your braces is healthy. Your orthodontist can check the wires to ensure that everything is fitting correctly, check for any signs of discomfort, and provide some extra accessories, like wax and flossers, so that you can care for your braces while you're away. If you have any questions about caring for your braces while traveling, this is an excellent chance to bring these concerns up to your orthodontist. 

2. Watch What You Eat

There are many foods that orthodontists recommend avoiding if you have braces. Examples include popcorn, caramel, gum, hard candy, and similar items that are sticky or tough to chew. While traveling, you may encounter foods that you haven't tried before, especially in foreign countries. In general, avoid anything sticky or hard. Cut tough foods into smaller pieces and eat carefully to avoid damaging your braces. 

3. Stick With Your Care Routine

Travel is exciting since it's a break from your usual routine, but don't let that break extend to caring for your braces. It's essential to consistently floss and brush your teeth, no matter where you are. Make sure to pack all of the essentials, including your toothbrush, toothpaste, floss, and any other items that you need to clean and care for your braces. 

4. Watch for Damage

During your trip, take a moment each day to check for loose wires, broken brackets, or other signs of damage to your braces. If you spot anything that concerns you, reach out to your orthodontist's office for help, and if you're experiencing irritation or pain, try using wax to ease the irritation. 

Make sure to schedule an appointment with your orthodontist before leaving on your next trip. SmileOdontics is a family-owned practice that serves Mason, OH, and the surrounding area. Their lead orthodontist, Dr. Jameel Khan, helps patients gain beautiful smiles through metal braces, Invisalign, and ceramic braces. See all the services that SmileOdontics offers online or schedule an initial appointment today at (513) 229-3100.