Looking After Braces & Aligners on Holiday
Whether you're heading abroad for a summer holiday or planning a weekend away, travelling doesn't mean your orthodontic treatment should take a break. With a little preparation, you can keep your aligners or braces on track and avoid any unnecessary setbacks while you're away.
In this article, our Church Road dentists offer tips on what to pack and how to prioritise your oral health when travelling. If you need treatment on your return to Teddington, book an appointment online or call us on 0208 977 3746.
How to maintain your aligners or braces while travelling
Pack an orthodontic travel kit
Before you leave, make sure you have everything you need to maintain your oral hygiene routine. Your kit should include:
- Toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste
- Dental floss or interdental brushes
- Orthodontic wax (for braces)
- Your aligners case
- Any spare aligners, if provided
- Travel-sized mouthwash
Having these essentials to hand can help you keep your teeth and appliances clean wherever you are.
Stick to your routine
For those wearing aligners, it's important to continue wearing them for the recommended 20-22 hours per day. Holidays can disrupt normal routines, but consistent wear is essential to keep your treatment progressing as planned.
If you have braces, continue brushing carefully after meals and cleaning around brackets and wires to prevent plaque build-up.
Be mindful of what you eat
Travelling often means enjoying different foods and treats. If you wear braces, avoid particularly hard, sticky or chewy foods that could damage brackets or wires.
For anyone wearing aligners, remember to remove them before eating or drinking anything other than water and always clean your teeth before putting them back in.
Prepare for emergencies
If you're travelling for an extended period, it's worth speaking to your dentist or orthodontist at Church Road Dental Care Centre beforehand. They may be able to provide spare aligners or advice on what to do if a bracket becomes loose or an aligner is lost.
Should a minor issue arise while you're away, don't panic. Orthodontic wax can often help with irritation caused by braces until you can seek advice from our team.
Stay hydrated
Drinking plenty of water is beneficial for both your overall health and your oral health. Water helps wash away food particles and bacteria, reducing the risk of plaque build-up while travelling.
Book a check-up
If you're planning a holiday, a check-up before you travel can help ensure your treatment is progressing smoothly and identify any potential issues before you leave. Alternatively, booking an appointment when you return to Teddington can help get your orthodontic care back on track after your trip.
At Church Road Dental Care Centre, we're here to support you throughout your journey with aligners or braces. Book an appointment today and keep your smile moving in the right direction.
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