Summer Travel Guide: Braces Edition

As summer vacation approaches once more, whether it’s a time for staying home, working summer jobs, or jetting off on adventures, braces can certainly add a unique twist to the season for everyone involved. Today, Brodsky Orthodontics presents an official Summer Travel Guide: Braces Edition!

One for the Road

This season highlights the importance of managing your braces while you’re out and about. Whether or not you already have a dental kit on hand, here are some essential items Dr. Joel , Dr. Charles , or Dr. Jeremy recommend you have with you when you’re traveling:

• An orthodontic toothbrush features soft bristles and a compact, angled head, allowing for thorough cleaning around braces and brackets.
• Orthodontic wax is a reliable aid for emergencies or discomfort, offering relief by covering sharp or protruding pieces that may irritate the lips or cheeks.
• Keeping elastic bands handy is advisable; they can temporarily secure loose brackets until you can visit our office.
• Interdental brushes are useful for navigating tight spaces between brackets.
• Floss threaders provide convenience over traditional dental floss, easily accessing areas beneath wires and in the back of the mouth.
• Travel-sized toothpaste is ideal for on-the-go outings, while orthodontic mouthwash helps ensure freshness even during vacations .
• A compact mirror or dental mirror assists in effectively observing all areas of the mouth during cleaning sessions.

It’s essential to pack these items appropriately based on your surroundings. For instance, if you’re heading to the beach, consider the heat and store it at the bottom of your larger bag.

Other Tips for Vacation

These tips will prove useful whether you’re staying locally or traveling to a more traditional summer destination!

• Stay Hydrated: It’s essential to stay hydrated, especially during summer with braces, as it helps prevent dry mouth, which can accelerate decay, a common concern with braces.

• Maintain Oral Hygiene: Keep up with your oral care routine by brushing and flossing after every meal, particularly after consuming sugary snacks or drinks.

• Use a Water Flosser: Consider investing in a water flosser for thorough cleaning, reaching inaccessible areas of the mouth more effectively.

• Protect Your Braces: Exercise caution during sporting activities, especially high-contact sports like football or basketball. Mouthguards are essential for protecting your braces, even for less contact-intensive activities like volleyball or kickball.

• Choose Braces-Friendly Foods: Indulge in summer treats that are gentle on your braces, such as soft fruits, yogurt, ice cream, smoothies, and grilled fish and vegetables. Avoid sticky and chewy foods that can damage your braces, even though they might be tempting at theme parks or in foreign countries!

• Keep an Eye on Kids: If these tips apply to your child, remind them to follow these guidelines and periodically check in to ensure they’re successful. Brodsky Orthodontics is proud to serve children , so feel free to inquire about best practices.

• Protect Your Braces at the Beach or Pool: When swimming, be mindful of potential damage to your braces from sand, chlorine, or salt water. Consider wearing a mouthguard while swimming for added protection.

• Protect Your Braces from Sun Exposure: Direct sunlight can cause discomfort, especially with metal braces . Wear a hat or seek shade to minimize discomfort from prolonged exposure.

• Protect Your Lips : Apply lip balm with SPF to shield your lips from sunburn, especially during extended outdoor activities.

•   Rinse After Swimming: After you swim in a pool, try to remember to rinse your mouth with clean water to remove any chlorine residue. You might not realize it, but chlorine can discolor your braces over time!

• Attend Orthodontic Appointments: If you’re not away for the entire summer break, don’t skip your regular check-ups with your doctor! We understand that summer can be busy, but staying on track is essential for achieving great results. If you’ll be absent for a while, schedule check-ups before your departure.

• Remember the Goal: Remember, discomfort and inconvenience from braces are temporary. Keep your eyes on the prize—a straight, healthy smile—for motivation during challenging times.

•  Enjoy Yourself: Most importantly, enjoy yourself! Don’t let braces dampen your summer enjoyment. We’re here to address any concerns and ensure you make the most of your summer with braces.

Planning Ahead

Feel free to contact our Brodsky Orthodontics team if you have any further inquiries. The more details you provide our doctors about your summer plans, the more tailored advice we can offer! For instance, if you’re embarking on international travel, you may have unique concerns compared to domestic trips. We prioritize getting to know our patients individually to provide exceptional treatment and care. To schedule your free consultation or next appointment with us, you can reach out to our Lakewood office .