When you’re in the middle of an orthodontic treatment, taking care of your braces is a full-time job. Even when you’re away from home, you need to have the right tools on hand to keep your braces – as well as your smile – in excellent shape. As such, if you’re getting ready to travel, you should put together a braces survival kit; here are 6 items that you should make sure are in it.
1. Travel-Sized Toothbrush and Toothpaste
Plaque can easily build up on the surface of your braces, which can increase your chances of gum disease and tooth decay. As such, brushing your braces and your teeth at least twice a day is essential. Before anything else, you should make sure your braces survival kit contains a travel-sized toothbrush and some toothpaste so that you can maintain your regular oral hygiene routine no matter where you go.
2. Interdental Brushes
When food gets trapped in your braces, you’ll want to have a tool that’s suitable for getting rid of it. Interdental brushes make it easier to reach the various nooks and crannies of your braces so that you can get rid of any foreign debris. Make sure that you don’t leave home without plenty of interdental brushes.
3. Floss and Floss Threaders
You should still floss your teeth even when you’re in the middle of orthodontic treatment. But if your brackets and wires are making the task difficult, it can be wise to invest in floss threaders. These simple tools can help you guide your dental floss between your braces so that you can give your smile a truly thorough cleaning.
4. Orthodontic Wax
Damaged braces can sometimes irritate the soft tissues inside your mouth. As such, it’s a good idea to carry orthodontic wax in case of emergencies. The wax can cover any sharp or rough surfaces in order to protect your lips, your tongue, and the insides of your cheeks. This can go a long way toward helping you stay as comfortable as possible until the necessary repairs can be made.
5. Lip Balm
You may be surprised to learn that braces can sometimes lead to dry lips. This is largely a consequence of the lips being stretched out wider than normal. If you often find yourself bothered by chapped lips during your orthodontic treatment, you’ll definitely want to stock up on lip balm.
6. Pain Medication
It’s no secret that braces can cause some discomfort after they’re initially placed or after they’ve been adjusted. Over-the-counter pain medication such as ibuprofen can often help you find relief. Just make sure that you follow the directions for taking such medication to the letter.
About the Author
Dr. Payam Ishani completed his specialty training in orthodontics and dentofacial orthopedics at the University of Nebraska Medical Center. Her Oklahoma City practice, Casady Square Orthodontics, offers traditional braces, Invisalign, and other orthodontic solutions for patients of all ages. To schedule a consultation with Dr. Ishani, visit her website or call (405) 254-5094.