Jet-Setting with Confidence: Island Ortho’s Tips for Traveling with Braces and Aligners

Table of Contents

Introduction

Planning for Your Trip

Packing Essentials for Braces and Aligners

Daily Oral Care Routine While Traveling

Eating on the Go

Foods to avoid with braces

Braces-friendly snacks

Staying hydrated

Handling Emergencies on the Road

Aligner Care Tips for Travelers

Maintaining Good Hygiene in Different Environments

Dealing with Time Zone Changes

Flying with Braces and Aligners

Oral Care on Road Trips

Cruise Travel with Braces and Aligners

Sports and Activities While Traveling

Staying Motivated to Maintain Oral Care

Conclusion

FAQs

Introduction

Traveling is an exciting adventure but can come with challenges, especially if you wear braces or aligners. Keeping up with your orthodontic care while on the go is crucial to ensure your treatment stays on track and you maintain your oral health. Island Ortho, under the expert guidance of Dr. Renee Dyken, Dr. Leslie Talbert, & Dr. Erin Bilbo provides a detailed guide complete with comprehensive tips and tricks to jet-set confidently, ensuring your braces or aligners don't hinder your travel experience.

Planning for Your Trip

Before you embark on your journey, it is wise to schedule an appointment with your orthodontist. This pre-travel check-up ensures that your braces or aligners are in good shape and gives your orthodontist a chance to address any potential issues that could arise while you're away. Discuss your travel plans and ask for advice about your destination and duration.

Packing Essentials for Braces and Aligners

The right supplies are essential for maintaining your braces or aligners during your trip. 

For braces, pack a travel toothbrush, fluoride toothpaste, floss, floss threaders, interdental brushes, orthodontic wax, and a small mirror. 

For aligners, include a travel-sized cleaning solution, a case for your aligners, and a soft-bristled toothbrush for cleaning them. If you're nearing the end of your current set, remember to bring extra elastics or aligner trays.

Daily Oral Care Routine While Traveling

Maintaining your oral hygiene routine is crucial, even when you're away from home. Brush your teeth at least twice a day and floss once a day. Use interdental brushes and floss threaders to clean around your braces effectively. If you have aligners, rinse them every time you take them out and brush them gently before putting them back in. Rinsing your mouth with water after meals can also help keep your teeth clean when brushing isn't immediately possible.

Eating on the Go

Travel often means eating out or grabbing food on the go. Avoid hard, sticky, and chewy foods that can damage your braces. Opt for braces-friendly snacks like yogurt, bananas, and cheese. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water, which helps wash away food particles and keeps your mouth fresh. Carrying a small, portable water bottle can be very handy.

Handling Emergencies on the Road

Orthodontic emergencies can happen, but being prepared can make them less stressful. Orthodontic wax can temporarily alleviate discomfort if a bracket breaks or a wire becomes loose. If a wire pokes you, gently push it back into place with a pencil eraser. Over-the-counter pain relievers can help manage any pain or discomfort. Ensure you have your orthodontist's contact information handy for professional advice.

Aligner Care Tips for Travelers

Keeping your aligners clean and safe is vital during your travels. Rinse them with water every time you remove them, and brush them with a soft-bristled toothbrush and clear, unscented liquid soap daily. Avoid using toothpaste on your aligners as it can scratch them. Always store them in their case when not in use to prevent loss or damage. If you misplace an aligner, wear the previous set and contact your orthodontist for guidance.

Maintaining Good Hygiene in Different Environments

Travel often means adapting to different environments. In hotel rooms, use bottled water to rinse your mouth and clean your toothbrush. When using public restrooms, avoid placing your aligners or braces accessories directly on surfaces. Carrying disinfectant wipes can help keep your items sanitary. If you're in a location with questionable water quality, use bottled water for all oral care routines.

Dealing with Time Zone Changes

Adjusting to different time zones can disrupt your oral care schedule. Plan by setting reminders on your phone to brush, floss, and change your aligners at appropriate times. If you're crossing multiple time zones, adjust your schedule gradually to maintain consistent wear time for your aligners.

Flying with Braces and Aligners

Navigating airports and flying with braces or aligners requires some preparation. TSA guidelines generally allow orthodontic supplies in your carry-on, but checking the specific regulations is always a good idea. During long flights, maintain your oral care routine by brushing and rinsing your mouth after meals. Drinking water and avoiding sugary snacks can help keep your mouth clean and fresh.

Oral Care on Road Trips

Road trips offer more flexibility but also require planning. Schedule regular stops to brush and floss, especially after meals. Pack a portable oral care kit that's easily accessible, and set reminders to stay on schedule with your routine. Keeping healthy snacks and plenty of water in the car can help you avoid less-than-ideal food options.

Cruise Travel with Braces and Aligners

Cruises can be a fantastic way to travel, but they come with their own challenges for orthodontic care. Many cruise ships offer dental services, so familiarize yourself with what's offered on board. Stick to your oral care routine as closely as possible and be cautious with the variety of foods available on the ship.

Sports and Activities While Traveling

Staying active while traveling is great, but protecting your braces during physical activities is important. Wear a mouthguard during sports or any physical activity to prevent damage. Aligners can usually be worn during sports, but if you're playing a contact sport, consider switching to a mouthguard for protection.

Staying Motivated to Maintain Oral Care

Traveling can disrupt routines, but staying motivated to maintain oral care is crucial. Set reminders on your phone and use apps designed to help you track your orthodontic care. Reward yourself for sticking to your routine, whether with a special treat or a fun activity at your destination.

Conclusion

Traveling with braces or aligners doesn't have to be a hassle. With a little preparation and the right mindset, you can enjoy your trip while keeping up with your orthodontic care. Follow these tips to ensure your treatment stays on track and your smile remains healthy and bright. With 9 locations across Mobile and Baldwin Counties in Alabama, getting your new smile has never been easier. Visit islandortho.org or call us at 251-968-1310 for Baldwin county locations & 251-344-7604 for our Mobile county locations. 

Frequently Asked Questions 

What should I do if I forget my orthodontic care kit? 

If you forget your kit, try to purchase basic supplies like a toothbrush, toothpaste, and floss at a local store. Contact your orthodontist for advice on managing without specific items.

Can I swim with my aligners? 

Yes, you can, but it's best to remove them if you're in chlorinated or salty water to prevent discoloration.

How often should I clean my aligners while traveling? 

Clean your aligners at least twice a day, preferably after meals. If this isn't possible, rinse them thoroughly with water to keep them clean until you can brush them.

What if I need an emergency orthodontist while abroad? 

Research orthodontic services at your destination before you travel. Keep your orthodontist's contact information handy so they can assist in finding emergency care if needed.

Can I skip a day of wearing my aligners if I'm traveling? 

It's best to wear your aligners. Consistency is key to effective treatment. If you must remove them for an extended period, wear them as soon as possible and follow up with your orthodontist.