Braces are perhaps the most iconic orthodontic treatment around; for generations, these metal brackets and wires have filled out mouths and effectively corrected several smiles. That said, they’re also notorious for being a little difficult to clean and care for, especially when you’re first getting started. One thing that can often help with this is having a braces survival kit at hand—these kits can give you everything you need to ensure that your orthodontic journey is never jeopardized! Here are a few items that you should include in yours.
1. Orthodontic Wax
This item is a lifesaver for patients with braces! Sometimes, your brackets and wires can rub against the soft tissues inside your mouth and create sore spots and irritation. Dental wax can be applied to reduce the amount of discomfort this causes until your mouth tissue naturally toughens. It’s also ideal for when a wire or bracket becomes damaged and needs to be covered up.
2. Pocket Mirror
Mirrors are incredibly useful, and if you can, try to include a pocket-sized one in this kit. There might be times when you won’t have access to a bathroom mirror, and you still need to inspect your braces. This handy tool will allow you to do so; it’s also useful for when you’ve just finished brushing!
3. Interdental Brush
These special, braces-friendly toothbrushes are smaller and have different bristles. They’re incredibly useful for removing food particles that become stuck around your brackets or underneath your wires. They’re disposable and are quite bendable and flexible, and they’re useful whether you’re at home or on the go.
4. Dental Floss
Flossing is just as important as brushing; the habit lets you access spaces in your mouth that your toothbrush can’t reach, even interdental brushes. You might also prefer to use a dental flosser, a special tool with a pre-cut length of floss that’s ideal for the funny angles inside of your mouth and between your teeth.
5. Pain Relievers
Over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen are also handy for dealing with some of the pain and soreness associated with wearing braces; just be sure you’re following dosage instructions, and in the case of young children, only administer it under adult supervision.
If you have braces, the very last thing you want to happen is for your treatment process to drag on or become interrupted. That said, consider acquiring these items and putting them to good use; they will ensure things stay on track!
About the Practice
Here at Simply Orthodontics Worcester, we’re excited to offer patients and families in Worcester an unrivaled level of high-quality care! Our team is pleased to provide a wide range of orthodontic services for patients young and old. If you have any questions about the blog or you’d like to schedule a visit for you or a loved one, feel free to contact us online or over the phone for additional information or assistance. Telephone: (508) 757-3173.