Dr Hawkins’ office never fails to impress me! Whether I am just getting a cleaning or have a dental concern, they take care of me quickly and painlessly. Everyone is so nice, friendly and professional. I used to have a fear of going to the dentist but I no longer do, thanks to Dr. Hawkins and his staff. I highly recommend them.
Thanksgiving means reuniting with family, sharing great food, and sometimes traveling long distances. But if you wear braces or retainers, being away from your regular routine can make oral care a little tricky. The key to a worry-free trip is learning how to travel smart with your orthodontic appliances so your progress continues uninterrupted while you enjoy the holiday festivities.
Pack Essentials for Easy Care
Before you leave, prepare a small travel kit dedicated to your braces or retainer care. Include a soft toothbrush, toothpaste, floss threaders, orthodontic wax, and a travel-size mouth rinse.
Don’t forget your retainer case or aligner container—keeping these items close ensures you won’t misplace your appliances during meals or travel stops. A compact mirror can also come in handy for quick checks after eating.
Choose Foods That Are Friendly to Your Smile
Thanksgiving spreads are famous for sticky desserts and crunchy snacks, but those foods can be tough on braces and retainers. Skip hard nuts, chewy candies, and caramel pies that could damage wires or get stuck between brackets.
Instead, focus on softer options like turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, and pumpkin pie. These choices let you enjoy the feast without risking your orthodontic progress.
Stay Consistent With Cleaning Habits
Travel often means changing time zones and daily routines, but your oral hygiene schedule should stay the same. Brush at least twice a day and floss once daily to remove lingering food particles that could lead to plaque buildup.
If brushing right away isn’t possible, rinse your mouth with water after eating to keep things clean until you can. For retainer wearers, clean your appliance daily to avoid odors or bacteria.
Plan Ahead for Any Issues
Unexpected mishaps can happen on the road—a loose bracket, broken wire, or misplaced retainer can be stressful. Before you leave, note your orthodontist’s emergency contact information and look up nearby orthodontic offices near your travel destination. Quick preparation helps you handle small problems calmly and keeps you focused on enjoying your trip.
Enjoy the Journey With Confidence
Your Thanksgiving travels should be filled with fun, gratitude, and smiles—not orthodontic stress. By packing the right tools, making smart food choices, and maintaining good hygiene, you’ll keep your appliances safe and your treatment right on track. Wherever your holiday plans take you, remember to travel smart and enjoy every bite and memory along the way.
Heading out for the holidays? Schedule a pre-trip checkup with us to ensure your braces or retainers are ready for smooth Thanksgiving travels. Call Hawkins Complete Dental Service at 740-214-1301 for an appointment in Zanesville, OH. You can also request an appointment online.