Having braces can be tough but a necessary part of getting the smile you really want. Braces are with you 24/7 for the duration of your treatment. Since they’re literally attached to you for all this time, it’s a good idea to keep some items handy to help you take care of them. Talk with your orthodontist to see if there are other items besides this that you should carry in your kit.
Even the American Association of Orthodontists, recommends keeping an emergency kit on it you, just in case of any situation.
SO what should you keep on you? Let’s get into it….
Number One: A toothbrush and toothpaste
Is this one really surprising? Probably not. Keeping your teeth and braces clean is important. Brushing after meals will also help keep food out of your braces and your pride in tact.
Number Two: Floss or Flossers
This super helpful tool will help you floss properly since it can go behind the wire and your teeth. We don’t need to reiterate how important flossing is to people with braces (we know, or hope, you know it’s significance).
Number Three: Orthodontic wax
This will be a life saver. Orthodontic wax is a great way to help soothe your mouth against a bunch of things, whether it’s a pokey wire, a bruising bracket or just any general sore spots.
Number Four: Tissues
Now we know what you’re thinking “I have metal in my mouth, not a runny nose!” but hear us out. Tissues can help with drool (it happens) or drying off an area before applying wax.
Number Five: Water
Water is really something that fixes everything. If you need to brush or rinse your mouth out on the go, water is a complete lifesaver. It can loosen unwanted food from in between your braces, helps keep your mouth hydrated and encourages saliva flow (which helps break down food and keeps your mouth clean).
Number Six: Lip Balm
Nobody likes having dry lips, whether it’s because of an adjustment or just in general, a little lip balm goes a long way. Besides hydrated lips smile easier.
Number Seven: Pain Relievers
Like we said in the beginning braces can be hard and when they’re being unbearable ibuprofen can be a godsend. Just make sure to follow all usage instructions on the bottle.