Are you headed to the pool, beach, or on a hiking trip this spring? If so, you may want to consider a few things if you’re also undergoing orthodontic treatment. After all, you wouldn’t want your trip to disrupt or prolong your treatment in any way. Here are our top tips for going on vacation or enjoying the spring with braces, Invisalign®, or retainers.
Always have your case
If you’re wearing removable or part-time appliances, such as aligners or retainers, you probably know the annoyance of misplacing or forgetting your case. If you’re going to a pool, heading out on a day trip, or gearing up for a vacation, you’ll want a safe, clean place to store your appliances. We recommend bringing at least one—if not two—cases. This way, you’ll always have somewhere to store your appliances, and you can avoid the awkwardness of finding a napkin or plastic bag. (This also minimizes the risk of accidentally throwing out aligners wrapped in a napkin!)
Foolproof vacation kit
Speaking of bringing your case, why stop there? We recommend packing a foolproof kit for day trips or longer—especially if you’re going somewhere without immediate access to dental care. Bring a toothbrush, toothpaste, floss or floss threaders, a mini bottle of mouthwash, TYLENOL®, and orthodontic wax in your kit. This way, you’ll be prepared for almost any obstacle your appliances may throw your way! Bring an orthodontic mouthguard if you’re leaving for an athletic trip, like a spring tournament or game.
Maintain regular appointments
We know the spring season is often hectic, but we ask that you continue to schedule your regular orthodontic appointments. If you were meant to come in the week of a vacation or trip, please don’t skip the appointment. Instead, try to reschedule it for right before or after you return. This way, you can keep making progress toward your smile goals!
Keep appliances safe and clean
As the weather warms up, beware of the heat! Do not leave your appliances out in the hot sun or in the car, as this could damage the plastic of your aligners or retainers. Gearing up for a spring or summer beach vacation? Don’t get sand or sunscreen on your retainers or aligners. When you’re not wearing your appliances, stow them safely in their case, inside your bag.
During a hot day, reaching for a cold drink is refreshing. But remember to remove aligners before drinking anything other than water. And always brush and floss after sugary or acidic drinks! Keeping your appliances clean will ensure you stay cavity-free—no matter where your season takes you.
We hope you have a wonderful spring and summer season! Book a free consultation at Petty & Bielik Orthodontics.