A useful travel kit
- Travel toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste
- Interdental brushes/flossing aids
- Orthodontic wax
- Spare elastics if prescribed
- Small mirror
- Retainer/aligner case
- Contact details for your orthodontic office
Flights and long travel days
Keep essential supplies in hand luggage, not checked baggage. Water and a small cleaning kit are especially useful on long-haul days when meals and snacks happen at odd times.
Eating away from home
Use the same principles as at home: avoid hard/sticky foods that can damage the appliance, cut firm foods into smaller pieces and rinse with water when full cleaning is not immediately possible.
If a bracket or wire breaks abroad
Contact your own orthodontic practice first when possible. They can often tell you whether the problem can wait, whether wax is appropriate, or whether you should see a local dentist/orthodontist. Do not use glue or improvised tools on the appliance.
Travelling with retainers
Carry the retainer in a sturdy case and keep it with you. AAO travel guidance recommends continuing normal cleaning with a soft brush/mild cleanser as appropriate for your retainer. Never leave a clear plastic appliance in a hot car.
Before a long trip
If you will be away for several weeks or months, tell the orthodontic office in advance. They can plan appointments around travel and make sure you have enough elastics or other supplies.
Sources & further reading
- American Association of Orthodontists — Orthodontic FAQs — Travel cleaning guidance for retainers and orthodontic appliances.
- American Association of Orthodontists — Orthodontic FAQs — Supplies and steps for common orthodontic discomfort or appliance issues.
- American Association of Orthodontists — Oral Health Tips for Athletes — Sports protection and travel-kit advice for people with orthodontic appliances.
These references support general information. Your own dentist or orthodontist should make recommendations for your specific teeth, gums, appliance and treatment plan.