Create a Braces Survival Kit
We’d like you to think of braces as your friends. They are loyal. Braces slowly and steadily move your teeth into their ideal positions, and your smile’s strong alignment will help it stay healthy and beautiful. Good friends take care of you, and you should also take care of them. Pack an emergency car kit for your braces and be prepared for most dental issues that may arise. Keep it in your backpack, purse, briefcase, or car to make sure you’re always ready to care for your smile.
How do you pack a braces survival kit, you ask? First, gather your supplies. Here are some of our favorite suggestions for your braces kit.
1. Toothbrush and Toothpaste
Your braces are an important part of your smile. Soon they will be removed and your brilliant, improved smile will be fully revealed. For now, though, keeping your smile clean is especially important. Braces do make it a little tougher to clean your teeth since there are more surfaces where food and bacteria can hide. Keep a toothbrush and toothpaste in your dental toolkit and brush faithfully after each meal, even when you’re on the go. Your diligence will pay off with a healthy, straight smile!
2. Dental Floss
You may prefer interdental picks or a special tool to remove unwanted food particles from your braces. Some people with braces like regular floss with a floss threader. Find your tool of choice, and make sure this important item is in your kit. If you don’t have braces yet, be prepared for the occasional piece of food to get stuck. The good news is that with your dental kit, you’ll be ready to remove food and move on with your day.
3. Dental Wax
Dental wax can be extremely helpful for an orthodontic patient to have on hand. Occasionally your braces may irritate your cheek, lips, or gums. Place a small amount of dental wax on the problem area to help your skin heal. Contact your orthodontist if you encounter a protruding wire or if you feel your brakes need adjustment.
4. Water
You may already carry a water bottle with you, but if you don’t, add some water to your dental survival kit. You could include a small bottle of water or even a collapsible cup. Staying well-hydrated is great for your health, and drinking water helps encourage saliva flow. Saliva helps break down foods and keeps your mouth clean.
5. Lip Balm
Do you have braces and dry lips? There’s no need! Stash your favorite lip balm in your kit and use it liberally. Hydrated lips smile easier.
6. Pain Relief
You may experience some soreness in your teeth and gums after an orthodontic appointment. That’s completely normal. Keep medicine or your favorite homeopathic remedy in your braces kit so you have it when you really need it.
Now that you’ve gathered your supplies, it’s time to find a case to store all of your goodies. Look for a small zippered pouch to hold your items, such as a cosmetic bag or a travel toiletry bag. We like ones with several separate sections to keep your kit organized.
Remember to keep your orthodontist’s phone number handy – either saved in your phone or tucked into your braces kit. In an emergency, contact your doctor.
What is your favorite tool for maintaining your braces? Share it with us!