Traveling with braces this summer? If you or anyone in your family wears braces, you deserve to know how to keep your smile in shape on the road. No worries! Here at Bowen Family Orthodontics in Mullica Hill, Dr. Bowen and our team have your back. We’ve put together a handy summer travel guide that covers everything from snacks to swimming. Your braces can continue to do their job even if you are on vacation. Here are some tips that will keep your braces on point while you’re away from home this summer!
Orthodontic Oopsies On The Go
Uh-oh! A braces mishap while exploring new places? Not fun, but totally manageable! What should you do? First off, remember to include a breakout kit before you hit the road. Include essentials like orthodontic wax, a small mirror, and some tweezers. We know you’re not planning on an emergency, but you never know when one might strike.
If something feels off with your braces, use the wax to cover any sharp spots. Then, use the mirror to check it out. Tweezers can help you gently tuck away a stray wire. Still feeling a bit puzzled? No problem. Give Dr. Bowen’s office a quick call. We’re ready to help, even if you’re miles away. If it’s something big and you can’t get to our Mullica Hill office right away, check in with a local orthodontist. Ask Dr. Bowen for recommendations. Chances are, we know someone nearby where you’re headed.Â
Oral Hygiene Away From Home
Keeping your teeth and braces clean while on vacation doesn’t have to be tricky. Here’s how you can stay on top of your oral hygiene this summer. First, you need some dental defense essentials. Feel free to bring your regular toothbrush and toothpaste. If you need to make room, opt for travel-sized items. You should be able to find them at any supermarket or drugstore. Oh, and don’t forget the floss! If you wear braces, you probably use an orthodontic flosser. Bring that, too.Â
Travel-sized brushes and toothpaste should follow you out and about. After meals, give your mouth a good rinse with water if you can’t brush right away. This helps wash away some of the leftovers from lunch until you can get to your toothbrush.
And don’t forget to keep drinking water—it’s good for hydration and great for your teeth. Why? Water helps to keep food particles and bacteria at bay. Not to mention the fact that it’ll help offset halitosis (bad breath). Plus, Dr. Bowen will be super impressed at your next check-up. Happy travels and happy brushing!
Eating Right While Traveling
Traveling with braces can turn mealtime into quite an adventure. But don’t worry, eating right is totally doable. And yes, you can still partake in some tasty treats. You’ll just have to do it a little differently to accommodate your braces. First, focus on soft foods. They’ll take it easy on your brackets. Think pasta, smoothies, yogurt, and lots of fruits like bananas and berries. These are gentle on your hardware but also super delicious.
Be cautious with local delicacies that might be hard, sticky, or super chewy. These can be tough on your braces, which might take you away from your festivities. Instead, opt for softer, safer alternatives that give you a taste of local flavors without the risk.
Always remember to pack snacks that you know are safe for your braces, like soft granola bars, cheese sticks, and sliced veggies. With a little planning and some smart choices, you can enjoy your favorite foods without a care in the world. Your tummy will be happy, and your braces will still look amazing!Â
Activities and Braces
Summer means fun! Whether it’s a beach volleyball tournament or a family hike, you’ll want to keep your braces safe while you play. Always think ahead about what activities you’ll be diving into. If there’s a chance of a ball, elbow, or anything else meeting your mouth, please wear a mouthguard. They’re your best option for protecting your smile from unexpected bumps and knocks.
When choosing activities, go for the less risky ones that won’t likely lead to a face-first surprise. Love swimming? Great! Just make sure the pool isn’t too crowded. Enjoying a bike ride or a rollerblading session? Awesome. Strap your helmet on, and maybe even consider a mouthguard here, too.
Our Bowen Family Orthodontics team wants you to have fun! But keeping your braces intact is key to staying on schedule with your orthodontic treatment. Dr. Bowen would definitely recommend being active and cautious at the same time!Â
Pre-Travel Preparation
Before you set off on your summer adventure, a little prep can make all the difference for those sporting braces. Start with a visit to our Mullica Hill office. Dr. Bowen can give your braces a quick once-over to confirm that everything’s in order for your trip. This is a perfect time to ask any last-minute questions—like the best way to handle a loose wire or bracket while you’re away.
Next, pack a personalized ortho travel kit. Essential items include your toothbrush, toothpaste, floss, orthodontic wax, and a small mirror. We covered a few of these items when we talked about oopsies on the go. But we need to say it again. Orthodontic emergencies don’t care if you’re on vacation. They can happen. So please be prepared!
Please make sure you have our office number (856-246-5966) saved in your Contacts. You can reach us after hours, even if you’re out of town.Â
Soak Up The Sun at Bowen Family Orthodontics
When you go on vacation with your braces, make sure you take lots of pictures! Dr. Bowen and our Mullica Hill team want to see and hear about all the fun you had when you get back! Still have questions about braces? Go here to schedule your free consultation with Bowen Family Orthodontics.