The summer is almost upon us and that means vacation and travel time. We hope that each of you gets some well-deserved rest and relaxation, and time away. Whether you go on a family vacation, camp, amusement park, or a getaway to the beach be sure to think about your braces when you are packing. Here are a few items you should be certain to take with you in addition to your toothbrush:
- Orthodontic
- Wax Waterpik
- Floss & threaders or super floss (Glide)
- Proxy brushes
- Rubber bands (when directed by your doctor)
- Ibuprofen or Advil
Emergencies:
1. If you have a loose bracket - if it still attached to the wire, leave it in place and try to put wax on it. If the bracket is completely out, keep it for us to use at your repair appointment.
2. If you have a loose band - remove it and hold on to it for us to use at your repair appointment. Do not leave a loose band in place as it can serve as a food and bacteria trap.
3. Loose Wire - Try to put it back in place with tweezers. If you are not able to re-insert the wire, clip the wire using fingernail clippers or cuticle clippers behind the last tooth to which it is still attached. Use wax on a sharp edge if the wire is still sharp.
4. Poking Wire or broken wire hook - Try to push it down using the eraser end of a pencil. Use wax if wire is still sharp.
5. Sore Teeth - Use warm salt water rinses and take Advil or Ibuprofen as recommended for your age. Drink lots of fluids. Some soreness is common during orthodontic treatment, particularly at the start of treatment, after each adjustment, and following onset of elastic wear.