What to Do If You Have an Orthodontic Emergency While Traveling
Vacation Troubles? What to Do If You Have an Orthodontic Emergency While Traveling
At Virginia Braces, we know life doesn’t stop just because you’re in orthodontic treatment. Whether you're traveling to the beach, visiting family, or heading to summer camp, sometimes things don’t go as planned—like a loose bracket or a missing aligner.
Here’s how to handle the most common orthodontic emergencies while you're away from home.
If a Bracket Breaks on Vacation
A loose or broken bracket can be annoying, but it’s not usually a true emergency. Most of the time, it can wait until you return.
Here’s what to do:
Use orthodontic wax to cover any sharp edges and protect your mouth.
Avoid sticky, crunchy, or chewy foods that might make the situation worse.
Don’t panic if it’s still attached—just be gentle and leave it alone until we can fix it.
Call us when you’re back and we’ll get you scheduled to repair it.
If the wire is poking and causing pain, or if something is very uncomfortable, give us a call—we can often talk you through a fix or recommend a nearby provider if you're out of state.
Lost or Broken Aligner While Traveling?
Lost your aligners on vacation? Don’t worry—it happens! Whether they disappeared during dinner or got left behind at a hotel, here’s what to do:
Put in your last set if you still have them with you. This helps hold your teeth in place and prevents shifting.
Don’t move forward early unless we tell you to. Some trays apply more pressure than others and skipping ahead can do more harm than good.
Contact Virginia Braces as soon as possible. We’ll help you decide what to do next and may be able to send a replacement tray to you if needed.
💼 Travel tip: Always bring your current, previous, and next set of aligners in your travel bag—just in case!
When to Call vs. Wait Until You're Home
Not every issue needs immediate attention. Here’s a quick breakdown:
Call Us Right Away
Wire poking painfully
Lost or broken aligners
Bracket or wire causing cuts
Aligners missing mid-treatment
Okay to Wait
Slight soreness or rubbing
Minor irritation or loose bracket
Forgotten wax or aligner case
Tightness from switching trays
If you're unsure, call us! We’re happy to help—even if you’re out of town.
Be Prepared Before You Go
To make your trip stress-free, we recommend packing a small orthodontic travel kit:
Orthodontic wax
Travel toothbrush and floss
Extra aligners (if applicable)
Aligner case
Over-the-counter pain relief
Mouth rinse or salt packets
We’ve Got Your Back—Even When You’re Away
Whether it’s a tropical getaway or a long weekend at the lake, orthodontic emergencies shouldn’t ruin your fun. Most issues are easy to manage until you return—and Virginia Braces is always here to support you.
Need a quick visit before your trip? Reach out to schedule an appointment, or stop by to pick up extra supplies for the road. Safe travels and keep smiling!
