Summer time is our favorite time of year at North Seattle Orthodontics! The sun is shining, the days are longer, and you can take a break from the crazy hustle and bustle of the school year. But just because we slow down, does not mean our Orthodontic Treatment has to! It is important to be prepared and maintain a good orthodontic routine, even while you are traveling.
Let us know your vacation plans
If you are planning to be out of town please let us know before you go. We love to know what you are up to on your Summer Vacation, and with enough notice we can help you make a plan that will be the most beneficial for you and your treatment.
Pack Like a Pro
Being prepared can ensure a small orthodontic issue will not turn into a big deal on your trip. Adding a few items to your packing list can make sure your braces or Invisalign don’t slow you down.
Extra Elastics– Don’t take a vacation from your elastics! Not being consistent with recommended elastic wear can delay the removal of your braces or Invisalign, so be sure to pack enough for your entire trip.
Extra aligners (Invisalign)– Good news, you can’t see your aligners in your vacation photos there’s no need to fall behind. Bring enough to get you through to the end of your trip. If your current aligner gets lost you will want to wear one that fits to until you can get to the office, so pack your last one just in case.
Wax– Don’t forget to wax! Nothing is worse than trying to enjoy your time off with something sharp poking in your mouth. Always bring extra wax with you just in case. If you are running low it is available in the brushing room, grab as much as you need.
Cases for your retainer or Invisalign– Scuba dive, don’t dumpster dive! The most common way to lose your retainer or aligner is to wrap it in a napkin and accidentally toss it after a meal. Don’t spend your precious vacation digging through the trash. Retainer cases are available in the brushing room, grab an extra one at your next visit!
Ibuprofen or Tylenol– Manage your discomfort if you have recently had an adjustment or changed to a new aligner.
Watch what you eat
Vacation is a time to indulge in delicious food and beverages. No one wants to lose a bracket or bend a wire when you are out of town. Remember what foods to avoid while you are away.
- Hard or sticky candy or chewy foods.
- Cut corn off the cob and meat from the bone.
- Avoid popcorn and chips.
- Do not chew on ice cubes, pens, pencils or your fingernails.
- Chew only sugar-free gum.
- Drink fewer beverages with sugar and little or no sodas.
Be sure to cut “questionable” food into small bite size pieces and chew very carefully with your back teeth.
As always if you have any questions or concerns please call or email us, we are happy to help.
Bon Voyage!!