What You Need To Do To Care For Your Braces While On Vacation
If you are preparing for an exciting ski weekend or a trip home to visit your family for the holidays, you know need all of the essentials, including clothing, personal items, and a good book. However, as you get ready for your trip, it makes sense to consider how you are going to care for your braces while you are away from home. Maintain a high level of oral health with these tips.
1. Know What Snacks to Stay Away From
When you're traveling, it is easy to grab whatever snacks are quick and convenient. However, choosing the wrong snacks can damage the wires or brackets of your braces. Some foods to stay away from include nuts, fruit snacks and other gummy treats, popcorn, whole fruit (cut up fruit is a terrific alternative), hard candy, hard cookies, pretzels, corn on the cob, and hard bread.
A few alternatives you can snack on while on the road include bite sized fruits and vegetables, smoothies, cheese, and soft protein bars.
2. Put Together a Travel Kit to Care for Your Braces
While on vacation, it is easy to let your oral care fall by the wayside. You're having so much fun that it seems like a shame to spend time tending to your braces. Make sure you devote a few minutes every day to caring for your mouth. If you have everything you need for proper brace maintenance, you're less likely to skip your routine.
Include the following in your brace care kit: toothbrush, toothpaste, floss or your preferred between-the-teeth cleaner, mouthwash, wax for your braces, and a handheld mirror. See that this kit is easy accessible when you are on the road. If you have to fly, check that the contents of your kit adhere to TSA regulations concerning carry-on items.
3. Have the Name and Number of an Orthodontist in the Area
Even with the most stringent care, it is possible to have a dental emergency. One of your brackets may break, a wire might cause pain, or you might suffer from a toothache. Before you hit the road, look up the name of a couple orthodontists and dentists in the area you are traveling to. You can even confirm ahead of time that the orthodontist or dentist is covered by your dental plan to prevent any excessive bills at the end of your visit.
Maintaining proper oral care while on vacation isn't always easy, especially if you have braces. Keep your mouth and braces in good shape by following these simple suggestions for proper oral care. For more tips, contact a company like Waterford Dental.
