Braces need travel tips, too! Summer is here, and that means it’s time to hit the road or catch a flight to somewhere fun. But when you’re traveling with braces, a little extra planning goes a long way. Kovacs Orthodontics, with locations in Billings and Miles City, and our orthodontist, Dr. Kovacs, have some handy braces travel tips to share.
Be Prepared For The Unexpected
Sometimes, braces have a mind of their own. Especially when you’re away from home. Here’s what you should do if you run into any hiccups with your braces on vacation.
Loose or Broken Brackets
If a bracket decides it’s time to loosen up or break, don’t panic. First, if the bracket is still attached to the wire, leave it be. If it’s causing irritation, cover it with orthodontic wax for comfort. This wax is your go-to tool for stopping any sharp parts from giving your mouth a hard time. Whatever you do, don’t try to fix it yourself—this is a job for the pros.
Snapped Wires
A wire can snap when you least expect it. If this happens, use a pencil eraser to gently push the wire into a better position. If it’s poking you, apply some wax to it. These are quick fixes to keep you comfortable until you can get professional help from Dr. Kovacs.
Keep Our Number Handy
Always have Dr. Kovacs’s phone number in your contacts. Whether you’re just a town over or halfway around the world, we’re here to help sort out any braces drama.
Plan Ahead
Heading out on vacation soon? Visit us at Kovacs Orthodontics before your trip. A quick check can catch any potential issues before they interrupt your beach time or mountain hikes.
Preparing for Your Trip
Now that we’re clear on how to handle an emergency, here are some things to remember before you leave.
Pack a Braces Care Kit
Before you zoom off on your summer adventure, make sure you pack a braces care kit. What goes in there? Throw in some orthodontic wax, a travel toothbrush, floss threaders, and travel-sized toothpaste. These little helpers will keep your braces happy and your smile sparkling no matter where you are.
Schedule a Quick Check-Up
We mentioned this above, but it’s worth a second look. Swing by one of our Kovacs Orthodontics offices in Billings or Miles City. The doctor will make sure your braces are tight and right before you take off.
Customize Your Braces Toolkit
Everyone’s braces needs are a bit different, so tailor your kit to fit you. Do elastics keep your braces in check? Toss a few extras in there. Is there a special brush or floss you can’t live without? Into your bag, it goes. By the time you’re done, your kit will be as unique as your smile.
Eating Well On The Go
You’re set on emergencies. You know what to pack. But we’ve got to talk about what you can (and can’t) eat.
Choose Braces-Friendly Snacks
When you’re out and about this summer, keep your braces in mind while you munch. Skip the popcorn and wave goodbye to hard candies. Instead, why not dive into some yogurt, scoop up some smooth cottage cheese, or enjoy a bunch of soft, ripe berries? These snacks still let you live a little. But more importantly, they’re braces-safe and won’t leave you worrying about a trip to the orthodontist.
Soft and Safe Meal Options
Eating out doesn’t have to be super difficult. When you’re checking out the menu, lean towards dishes that are kind to your braces. Soft-cooked pasta, tender fish, and fluffy scrambled eggs are all great choices. If you’re in the mood for something hearty, go for a stew or a creamy soup. They fill you up without getting in your braces’ business.
Hydrate Like a Champ
Staying hydrated is really important, particularly when you’re traveling. Drinking lots of water helps wash away food bits that might get caught in your braces. Plus, it keeps your breath fresh, which is always a bonus. Carry a refillable water bottle wherever you go and sip throughout the day. Your mouth (and your braces) will thank you!
Keeping Your Braces Clean
How should you keep your braces nice and shiny while you’re traveling this summer?
Brush Up No Matter Where
Whether you’re lounging on the beach or hiking up a mountain, keep your toothbrush close. Brushing your teeth after every meal is a must, even on vacation. Grab a toothbrush and a mini tube of fluoride toothpaste, and make it a ritual. Your braces are working hard, so you have to protect them from any sneak attacks from cavities.
Floss Like a Boss
Flossing might seem like a chore. But trust us, it’s worth it. Those pesky bits of food won’t stand a chance if you use a floss threader or orthodontic floss every day. It gets right in there to clean places your brush can’t reach.
Tools for the Trail
For extra cleaning power, pack a portable water flosser or some interdental (between your teeth) brushes. These tools are helpful for anyone with braces, and they can’t wait to go on vacation with you!
Braces Getaways at Kovacs Orthodontics
Summer is the perfect time for adventures. With these tips from Kovacs Orthodontics, your braces can tag along worry-free. Whether you’re in Billings or Miles City, Dr. Kovacs is here to keep your smile in tip-top shape. Don’t let your braces slow you down this summer! If you have any questions or need a quick check before hitting the road, stop by Kovacs Orthodontics. Schedule your free consultation today, and keep smiling brightly all summer long!