Welcome to Wafelbakker Anderson Orthodontics (WAO Smiles)
At Wafelbakker Anderson Orthodontics, we do more than just straighten teeth. We transform lives with our conservative approach to full-mouth reconstruction. Our patients in Gilroy have even coined the term “the Wafelbakker smile” to describe the radiant results we achieve.
Caring for Braces During Summer Vacation
Maintaining your oral hygiene routine can be a bit more challenging with braces, especially when you’re on vacation. But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered with some helpful tips to keep your teeth and braces in top shape while you’re enjoying your summer break.
Pack the Right Tools for Good Oral Hygiene
When packing for your trip, it’s crucial to bring the right tools for maintaining good oral hygiene, especially if you have braces. Here’s a list of essentials to include in your travel kit:
- A small dental mirror
- Travel-size mouthwash and fluoridated toothpaste
- Orthodontic rubber bands and wax
- Toothbrush (and extra batteries or charger for electric toothbrushes)
- Dental floss and a floss threader
Keep these items in a small, zippered tote bag to prevent losing them and to keep your packing light and organized.
Snacks & Treats to Avoid
Vacation is a time to indulge and try new foods, but it’s important to remember the dietary restrictions that come with braces. To protect your brackets and wires from damage, avoid the following foods:
- Bubble gum and chewing gum
- Whole fruits like pears and apples (unless cut into smaller pieces)
- Sticky foods or candies such as taffy, caramel, marshmallows, and gummy worms
- Hard candies like suckers and jawbreakers
- Hard foods like nuts and pretzels
While we want you to enjoy your vacation, we also want to help you avoid any orthodontic emergencies, like a loose or broken bracket, that could put a damper on your trip.
Enjoy your summer vacation and take good care of your braces! If you have any questions or need assistance, feel free to reach out to us at Wafelbakker Anderson Orthodontics. We’re here to support you every step of the way on your journey to a beautiful, healthy smile.