* Toothbrush and toothpaste (this is always a must, braces or not!)
* A new pack of proxy brushes or the fuzzy GUM pick things that get under wires and clean around the brackets (and get food out of tight places!)
* A box of orthodontic wax in case something breaks or a wire starts to poke (let us know if you need some)
* A pair of nail clippers in case a wire pops out and Dr. Williams tells you to clip the wire on your own (call us first!)
* Floss (we love SuperFloss for flossing with braces or permanent retainers)
* A travel toothbrush and bottle of mouthwash for on-the-go cleaning
* Any rubber bands that Dr. Williams has ordered. Think about taking two packs and putting them in separate places, in case you misplace one pack. Put one in your carry-on and one in your packed luggage, or have someone else put a pack in their purse or briefcase for you.
There’s really nothing different about what you can eat on vacation, but while you’re gone, you particularly don’t want to pop off a bracket. So, be sure to avoid hard stuff like nuts, corn-on-the-cob (cut it off first), fruits not cut into wedges, and popcorn. Sometimes we decide to indulge a bit while on vacation, and “cheats” like a handful of caramel corn or chocolate covered almonds can really put a damper on vacation!
Most of all, have a great time, and tell us all about it when you return!