Terri Ramsey Beavers Traveling with braces can be challenging, especially if you experience a dental emergency while on the go. You risk breaking your braces, which can cause discomfort and interfere with your ability to eat, speak, and enjoy your trip. However, this should not prevent you from enjoying your trip. This article will discuss four tips for traveling with braces to help you stay prepared and assured while on the go.
1. Pack a travel dental emergency kit
Before leaving for your trip, prepare a travel dental emergency kit with all the essentials to manage broken braces. Include orthodontic wax, which can temporarily fix loose brackets or wires and relieve discomfort. Also, pack a small pair of pliers or wire cutters, which can be used to snip protruding wires that are causing pain or discomfort. Other items to consider including in your kit are over-the-counter pain relief medication, dental floss, a toothbrush, and toothpaste.
2. Know how to fix loose brackets or wires
If a bracket or wire comes loose while traveling, it’s important to address the issue immediately to prevent further damage. Use orthodontic wax to temporarily reattach the bracket or hold the wire. Before applying wax, clean and dry the affected area, then pinch off a small amount of wax and roll it into a ball. Place the wax over the bracket or wire, then use your finger to press it firmly into place. If the wire is poking out and causing discomfort, use the pliers or wire cutters to snip off the protruding end.
3. Protect your braces while eating
Eating can be tricky when you have braces, as certain foods can cause further damage to your orthodontic appliance. Avoid hard, crunchy, or sticky foods that dislodge brackets or wires, such as popcorn, nuts, candy, and chewing gum. Stick to soft, easy-to-chew foods that won’t damage your braces, such as mashed potatoes, scrambled eggs, soups, and smoothies. If you’re unsure what foods to eat, consult your orthodontist. As a tip, take small bites and chew your food carefully to avoid putting too much pressure on your braces. You also want to avoid sugary drinks and snacks as they can cause tooth decay and damage your braces.
4. Seek professional help if needed
If you experience severe pain, bleeding, or swelling while traveling, or if your braces are causing significant discomfort or interfering with your ability to eat or speak, seek professional help wherever you find yourself. Contact your orthodontist or an emergency dentist for advice on managing the issue and schedule an appointment quickly. Sometimes, you may need to visit a local dentist if you cannot see your regular provider, so keep this in mind. If you’re traveling abroad, it’s a good idea to research local dental providers and emergency dental services before your trip to know where to go if you need assistance.
Traveling with braces can be tricky, but it can be manageable with some extra preparation and care. Hopefully, you’ll consider these tips to achieve the best results.
