You can take the Memphis orthodontics patient out of Memphis, but can’t take the orthodontics out of the patient for vacation! Whether you’re heading to the beach, the mountains, or just Grandma’s house two states over, your braces or aligners from Saddle Creek Orthodontics are coming with you, and they deserve first-class, VIP treatment. (They are helping you achieve a very big goal, after all!) Packing a simple emergency orthodontic kit is one of the easiest ways to keep your smile on track while you’re away. It only takes a few minutes to prep, but it can save you hours of discomfort or disruption on your trip. Let’s break down exactly why you need an emergency orthodontic kit, what to pack, why they’re must-haves for travel, and how to handle minor hiccups without stressing.
Orthodontic Emergency
Orthodontic emergencies are rarely dramatic, but they can be annoying. A poking wire, a lost rubber band, or a piece of lettuce you just can’t dislodge—these tiny problems can feel huge when you’re hours from home and away from your regular routine.
That’s where a travel-ready kit comes in. With a few must-haves and a little planning, you’ll be ready to handle common issues quickly and comfortably. And if you’re one of our aligner patients, this still applies! Trust us, there’s nothing worse than realizing you forgot your backup tray set halfway through your trip.
What To Pack In Your Travel Orthodontic Kit
Most of these items are already part of your daily braces care kit, or, if not, are easy to find at any drugstore or can be retrieved from Saddle Creek Orthodontics in Germantown or Collierville. Choose a small pouch or toiletry bag to keep everything in an easy-to-find and easy-to-remember spot within your carry-on, purse, or backpack.
1.) Orthodontic Wax
This tiny superhero handles poking wires, loose brackets, and other bracket-related irritations. Just roll a piece between your fingers and press it onto the area causing trouble. Orthodontic wax is especially helpful for long car rides or flights where you can’t do a full fix right away.
2.) Interdental Brushes
Also called proxy brushes, these are a must-have tool for getting food out from between brackets and wires when you don’t have time (or space) to brush and floss properly. Keep a few on hand for post-snack touchups, and you’ll feel way less self-conscious in family photos.
3.) Rubber Bands
If Dr. Kyle or Dr. John has instructed you to wear rubber bands, bring more than you think you’ll need. They’re small, easy to lose, and essential to your progress. Throw in an extra baggie and stash them in your travel kit and suitcase so you’re never caught without them.
4.) Nail Clippers or Small Wire Cutters
Sometimes a wire pops loose and starts poking at your cheek. If you can’t reach us and wax isn’t cutting it, you may be able to clip the very end carefully to relieve the discomfort until you’re back. Only do this if absolutely necessary and safe—call us first if you can!
5.) Over-The-Counter Pain Relievers
Sore teeth from tray changes or bracket adjustments don’t stop for vacation. Bring your preferred over-the-counter pain relief so you’re prepared. A small bottle goes a long way. Be sure to follow the instructions on the bottle or from your physician for safe relief.
6.) Orajel
Mouth ulcers, wire pokes, and new bracket irritation can all feel like a buzzkill when you’re trying to enjoy your trip. Orajel or a similar numbing gel helps take the edge off until the issue clears up or you can get help.
7.) Portable Water Flosser & Travel Toothbrush
A vacation doesn’t mean skipping proper oral hygiene. Alongside your regular toothbrush, you should bring a collapsible toothbrush for excursions, floss and floss threaders, and a travel-sized bottle of mouthwash. A portable water flosser should also make the cut to keep your mouth feeling fresh and your smile confident, no matter where your vacation takes you.
8.) Previous Aligner Trays
Aligner patients — don’t forget to bring your current trays, your next set (if you’ll switch during your trip), and your previous set. If you lose or damage your current trays, popping in the previous ones is better than skipping altogether until you get back.
9.) Small Mirror
A compact mirror helps with everything on the go, including inspecting problem spots, putting in new rubber bands, and ensuring there’s no food in your braces ruining your photographs.
10.) Saddle Creek Orthodontics Contact Information
Last but not least, store the contact information for both of our locations in your phone just in case you don’t have access to WiFi and need to get hold of us. You can screenshot the contact page, add us to your contacts, or write it in the notes app on your phone. If something comes up, we’re here to help. Even if you’re hundreds of miles away, we can often walk you through temporary fixes or schedule a visit when you return.
Travel Far & Smile Bright
Whether you’re traveling out of state or out of the country, having a small orthodontic emergency kit packed and ready can make a big difference. You’ll stay more comfortable, more confident, and more in control of your care—even when you’re far from home.
At Saddle Creek Orthodontics, we want you to enjoy your time away without a second thought about your smile. Reach out to our team with any pre-trip questions or to schedule a quick check-in before you take off.
Safe travels from your Memphis orthodontics team, and don’t forget to tag us in your vacation photo dumps or vlogs on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube!