Orthodontic treatment doesn’t stop when the holidays roll around! Still, we know that you might not want to take time away from family fun to visit the orthodontist. Having braces during holidays can feel like a big deal, but it’s much easier than it looks.
When it comes to orthodontic care Thanksgiving and other holidays can cause a wrinkle or two. Still, with a few simple braces tips and Invisalign® travel tips, it’s a snap to ensure continued progress on orthodontic treatment. Here’s a quick holiday braces survival guide from your Port Orange orthodontics experts.
The Holiday Season Disrupts Routines, But You Can Still Improve Your Orthodontic Health
For many people in Florida and around the country, the holiday season is one of the busiest times of the year. You may be hosting family and friends or have travel plans that bring you all across the country. Whatever the case is, it’s still important to maintain your metal braces, clear braces, or plastic aligners along the way.
Luckily, it’s not as hard as it might look – especially when you get prepared in advance.
Here are some of the best tips to keep your orthodontic treatment working well.
1. Verify Your Checkup Schedule
When you have braces or clear plastic aligners, you’ll need occasional checkups to ensure your progress. While it’s important to schedule these on time, there’s often a week or two of leeway – especially when you’ve been in treatment for a while. Check with your family orthodontist to be certain you won’t miss any appointments. If an appointment is coming up soon, you may be able to reschedule to right before or right after any holiday trip.
2. Remember: Some Foods Are Off-Limits With Braces
Don’t forget, there are some foods that just don’t work with braces! This includes especially sticky or tough foods that you have to bite down on or chew vigorously. Consider in advance what foods you might need to skip or substitute. If you’ve got clear plastic aligners, then you’ll have more options for what to eat. Just remember to remove your aligners before your meal, brush and floss afterwards, and then put them back on.
3. Keep Up With Oral Care
Daily brushing and flossing are essential even when you’re traveling. It’s best to brush once in the morning, once in the evening, and once after every meal. Flossing should be done at least once daily, no more than 24 hours apart. When you’re traveling, be sure your plans help you avoid skipping any brushing. Remember, there are special rules around flying with gels like toothpaste. Plus, you can buy basic toiletries at most airports.
4. Have Your Braces Repair Kit Ready
Most patients of any age will go through orthodontic treatment without any problems. Still, the holiday season is hectic, and you might run into an issue like a bent bracket or a snapped wire. In case of emergencies, dental wax is the most useful thing to have on hand. Also called orthodontic wax, it can be used to cover up any sharp edges in the event of a brace break. That protects your gums and the inside of your cheeks from getting scraped.
5. Know How To Travel With Invisalign®
Invisalign® aligners are popular with both adults and image-conscious teens. They’re so discreet, even someone standing in front of you and having a conversation might not notice them. However, they are fragile if dropped. Do your best to wear your Invisalign® aligners as much as possible and avoid removing them – you need them safely in place more than 20 hours each day. A travel case is recommended in case you must remove them.
6. Don’t Forget Fun!
You can still savor most holiday treats with braces! That includes most pies, cakes, and other sweets; the great majority of chocolates and candies; and most of the traditional Thanksgiving menu, too! So, even though you need to give orthodontic care some thought, don’t let it distract you from holiday cheer. The winter season is the perfect time to enjoy the company of friends and family. Your orthodontist will be here when you return!
Beauchamp Orthodontics Provides Expert Port Orange Orthodontic Treatment
Getting the healthy smile you want is easier when you have an orthodontist you can trust!
Dr. Marielle Beauchamp is committed to being the family-friendly Port Orange orthodontist kids love visiting, even during holidays. Kids get exciting surprises and explanations without being talked down to. Adults get easy scheduling and orthodontic financing, so it is easy to access the best orthodontic care in Florida.
From our family to yours, have a wonderful holiday season. And remember – new patients are always welcome to get all the facts on orthodontic health here at Beauchamp Orthodontics. Book your consultation to get started.
