Yeah, TSA can definitely be hit or miss. My daughter wears a removable partial denture with metal components, and we've had mixed experiences too. Usually, no issues at all, but one time they did pull us aside for an extra check—not because of her denture, but because she had a small bottle of juice in her bag we completely forgot about. Go figure. Seems like dental appliances rarely cause problems since they're pretty common and TSA agents are probably used to seeing them. Toothpaste tubes and juice boxes though... those clearly pose the real threat, haha.
I've traveled plenty with partial dentures, and honestly, TSA barely bats an eye at them. Like you said, they're pretty common. But liquids? Forget it. I once had a nearly empty toothpaste tube confiscated because it was technically over the size limit—seriously? Dentures are usually the least of their worries. Just keep smiling and nodding through security...it's all part of the fun of traveling these days.
"Just keep smiling and nodding through security...it's all part of the fun of traveling these days."
Haha, exactly my experience. TSA usually overlooks orthodontic appliances too. I once forgot my retainer case had metal hinges—caused a brief pause, but they waved me through pretty quickly. Liquids, though...another story entirely.
Haha, orthodontic appliances are usually pretty safe bets at security. Dentures, though...they can definitely lead to some interesting moments. Had a patient once who told me he accidentally packed his denture adhesive in his carry-on—TSA pulled it out and stared at it like it was some alien artifact. He said the agent looked genuinely puzzled until he quietly explained what it was for. Apparently, the agent turned bright red and quickly waved him through.
But yeah, liquids are always the real troublemakers. I've lost count of how many mini toothpaste tubes I've sacrificed to airport security bins. At this point, I just mentally prepare myself for the inevitable toothpaste confiscation ritual every time I fly. Glad your retainer case didn't cause too much drama though—small victories make traveling a bit easier!
Haha, your story about the denture adhesive reminded me of my own awkward airport moment. I wear Invisalign aligners, and once I packed a bunch of those cleaning crystals in a little ziplock baggie for convenience. Of course, TSA pulled it out and gave me the most suspicious look ever. I had to awkwardly explain that no, it's not some weird contraband—just stuff to clean my aligners. The agent looked skeptical at first, but after a quick Google search (yep, he actually googled it right there), he just shrugged and handed it back.
Totally agree about liquids being the real hassle though. I've lost more mouthwash bottles than I'd like to admit. Now I just buy travel-sized ones at my destination or use those dissolvable mouthwash tablets—they've been a lifesaver for avoiding security drama. Glad your retainer case made it through smoothly...small wins really do count when traveling!
