Hurricane season in Florida brings plenty of reminders to stock up on essentials, create emergency plans, and protect your home. But if you or your child is undergoing orthodontic treatment, it’s also important to prepare for how weather disruptions might affect braces or aligners.
In areas like Tampa, Clearwater, Lakeland, and Orlando, storms can lead to power outages, clinic closures, or delayed appointments. While braces and clear aligners are generally low-maintenance, a little preparation goes a long way when the weather gets unpredictable.
Here’s how to keep your orthodontic treatment on track—even when a storm is heading your way.
Schedule Preventive Appointments Early
If a major storm is on the horizon, orthodontic offices across Florida may temporarily close for safety. If you’re due for an adjustment or experiencing discomfort, try to get in before the weather hits.
Pre-storm visits can:
- Address any poking wires or loose brackets
- Ensure appliances like expanders or rubber bands are secure
- Refill your supply of wax, elastics, or aligner cases
- Provide updated instructions in case your next visit is delayed
Many offices offer text alerts or online booking during emergencies, so stay in touch and watch for updates if a storm is approaching.
Pack an Orthodontic Emergency Kit
Just as you’d prepare a hurricane supply kit with flashlights, batteries, and bottled water, it’s smart to have an orthodontic kit on hand too. This becomes especially useful if you’re unable to visit your orthodontist for several days.
Your orthodontic hurricane kit should include:
- Orthodontic wax — To cushion any irritation from loose wires or brackets
- Dental mirror — To check areas of discomfort or debris
- Floss picks or threaders — For daily hygiene
- Travel toothbrush and toothpaste — In case of evacuation
- Compact mouth rinse — For freshening up without running water
- Aligner case — To prevent loss or damage during a move
- Extra rubber bands — If you’re wearing elastics
- Emergency contact info — Your orthodontic office’s number or website
Keep your kit in a waterproof pouch and store it with your main hurricane supplies so it’s easily accessible if you need to leave home.
Stay Consistent with Hygiene—Even During Disruption
Hurricane season can cause changes in routine, including evacuations, power loss, or limited access to clean water. But maintaining oral hygiene is still essential—especially if you’re in braces or aligners.
If you don’t have access to running water:
- Use bottled water to rinse your mouth and brush
- Avoid sugary or sticky snacks that may get stuck in brackets
- Use orthodontic wax to protect sore spots that you can’t immediately treat
For aligner patients, be sure to continue wearing trays for the recommended hours each day, even if daily routines are off schedule.
Avoid DIY Repairs
If a bracket comes loose or a wire starts to poke, it may be tempting to try fixing it yourself—especially if your orthodontist’s office is closed due to weather. While some basic steps are safe, it’s important not to attempt complex repairs.
What you can do safely:
- Apply wax to smooth sharp areas
- Use a clean pencil eraser to gently tuck a wire if it’s out of place
- Remove a loose bracket only if it’s causing pain and can’t be left alone
Do not use glue, wire cutters, or non-dental tools to attempt a repair. Instead, call your orthodontist’s emergency line or send a photo if the practice has a messaging service.
Plan for Missed or Rescheduled Appointments
Storms and flooding can cause office closures, even after the weather clears. If your appointment is canceled or delayed, don’t panic—most orthodontists build flexibility into treatment plans for these situations.
To stay on track:
- Continue wearing elastics or aligners as instructed
- Keep your next appointment date on your calendar and confirm any changes
- Note any issues you experience during the delay so you can discuss them at your next visit
Practices in hurricane-prone areas like West and Central Florida are used to these interruptions and can usually adjust treatment plans without setbacks.
Protect Appliances If You Evacuate
If your family needs to evacuate, take extra care with any removable appliances or tools. Losing or damaging an aligner, retainer, or rubber bands can slow progress—but it’s avoidable with a little planning.
Tips for traveling with orthodontic gear:
- Keep aligners and retainers in labeled cases
- Bring backup trays if you’re in a multi-week plan
- Store all supplies in your carry bag, not in checked luggage
- Double-check that wax, elastics, and hygiene items are packed
Whether you’re heading to a hotel, shelter, or relative’s home, having these essentials on hand will keep treatment moving forward with minimal disruption.
Stay Calm—Your Smile Is in Good Hands
Orthodontic treatment is a long-term journey, and small delays won’t derail your progress. The key during hurricane season is to be proactive, stay in touch with your provider, and prioritize your health and safety first.
Once the storm has passed, your orthodontic team will help assess any changes, address issues, and get you back on schedule.
Support and Guidance from a Team That Cares
At Imagine Orthodontic Studio, we understand how unpredictable hurricane season can be. That’s why we’re committed to supporting patients in Tampa, Clearwater, Lakeland, Orlando, and beyond—before, during, and after the storm.
Stay safe, stay prepared, and let us help you weather the season with a smile.