We all look forward to putting work and school aside for a long, relaxing vacation! What can’t be temporarily “paused,” however … is your orthodontic treatment.
Don’t let the commitment and hard work of maintaining your treatment be a deterrent for getting that well-deserved “R&R.” DO keep these recommendations in mind for caring for your braces, Invisalign or retainers, especially if you’re vacation takes you a good distance away from your home town and Koch Orthodontics in Geneseo, NY.
Schedule an Appointment Before Traveling
Koch Orthodontics promotes “preventive maintenance.” Do not hesitate to schedule a check-in appointment with Dr. Koch before you head out on your vacation or trip, just to make sure everything is in place and common treatment procedures (such as elastic replacements) are taken care of.
Braces typically need to be adjusted routinely, so insuring you see the doctor for any important appointments before you leave gets our recommendation. Let us know you’re traveling. In the event that you do experience an orthodontic-related emergency, give us a call (we’d rather find out about it sooner than later). We may be able to advise you over the phone whether or not to visit an emergency orthodontist or urgent care center, or offer some tips if there’s a temporary fix to the issue you’re having.
Stick to the Instructed Cleaning Routine
This one is tricky, as vacations and leisure travel typically mean a full schedule of activities – including meals and dining in places you may not be familiar with. As always, be diligent! Adhere to our recommendations regarding foods and beverages to avoid, and brush and floss thoroughly.
Invisalign wearers – remember that your aligners need to be in your mouth for 22 hours per day. We appreciate that this can be a challenge when your travel takes you to social settings (especially for teenages and young adults) – but remember that failure to wear your aligners can slow your process and prolong your treatment.
Carry a Kit
Pack a few necessary orthodontic tools, and appliances as a basic dental travel kit. Once again, preventive maintenance will pay off should any issues arise on your vacation.
If you wear a retainer, put “Retainer Carrying Case” at the top of this kit list!
When you depart for home from wherever you’re staying (hotel, Air B&B, a friend or family member’s house), make sure your retainer case is going home with you! Double and triple check!
Beyond your retainer case, we recommend packing:
- Travel toothbrush
- Fluoride toothpaste and mouthwash
- Dental floss
- Mouthguard and case if you plan on any sports
- Orthodontic wax to help with any discomfort from protruding wires
- Over-the-counter painkillers
- Spare orthodontic rubber bands
- Small water bottle for rinsing the mouth
- Small mirror to examine any possible dental issues
- Proxy brushes and Interdental picks
- Small nail clippers to cut a potential poking wire
Research Where to go during an emergency
Keep a brain-cell on nearby Urgent Care centers and even dental and orthodontic practices in the area.
Questions Before You Hit the Road? Let Us Know!
As always, we’re here to help you. If you’re planning to hit the road, contact Koch Orthodontics about how you or your family member in treatment can maintain treatment without issue during your trip. And of course – have fun! (And bring us back a souvenir!)
If you feel you or a family member may benefit from orthodontic treatment, contact Koch Orthodontics today. Like us on Facebook and follow us on Instagram for an inside look at who we are, and what we do!