By simply planning ahead for unexpected trips, you can make life with braces a little easier. Our Vancouver orthodontist shares some tips on how to be prepared for any trip, while you have braces.
Keep A Travel Sized Oral Hygiene Kit Ready-to-Go
By keeping a pre-packed oral hygiene kit ready-to-go at all times you will be ready to hit the road even at short notice. When you first get your braces, begin preparing for future trips by purchasing a small pouch or case that will fit easily into a carry-on case, purse, or backpack, and fill it with items that you will need to maintain good oral hygiene whenever you're away from home.
Some items to include in your ready-to-go pack include:
- Toothpaste
- A travel toothbrush with brush cover
- Mouthwash
- Dental floss or picks
- Orthodontic wax
- Interdental brush
- Lip balm to prevent chapping
- Ibuprofen or anti-inflammatory pain relief tablets
- Hand-held mirror
- Anti-bacterial hand wipes
Strive to Maintain Your Oral Hygiene Routine
While you're away from home it can be difficult to stick to your normal oral hygiene routines, but while you have braces good oral hygiene is really important for protecting your teeth and gums. Don't be tempted to take a vacation from regular brushing and flossing! Letting your routine slide while you are away can make it extremely difficult to get back to good hygiene practices when you get home. Be sure to brush thoroughly twice a day and floss daily whether you are home or away, to help keep your smile healthy and bright.
Take Along Some Braces-Friendly Snacks
Our orthodontists know that travelling can really mess with your regular eating habits, but while you're away don't take risks with your braces when deciding what to eat. If you're away from home, you may not be able to get to your orthodontist quickly if you damage a bracket or wire. That's why being extra cautious about your food choices is a good idea while travelling.
While they may be extra tempting when you are travelling, avoid crunchy, hard, chewy or sticky foods that could damage braces. You may find it helpful to bring along some easy to carry braces-friendly foods so that you will be less tempted to snack on foods that could damage your brackets or wires.
Here are a few of our favourite soft food snacks:
- Avocado with sea salt and pepper
- Yogurt cups
- Cottage Cheese
- Soft fruit like grapes or bananas
- Soft vegetables like peppers or cucumbers
- Pita slices with hummus
