Saskatoon – Stephenson Orthodontics
Now that school is back in full swing, it’s a great idea to include a braces survival kit in your locker or backpack. Here is a list of items that you’ll want to include:
1. Travel-sized toothbrush and toothpaste – Some companies even make disposable, pre-pasted mini brushes if you’re really in a crunch.
2. Interdental Brushes – Interdental brushes are great to have on hand both at home and when you’re away. These disposable brushes bend and flex, making it easier to access hard-to-reach areas. The tiny bristles help remove food particles trapped between your teeth and braces.
3. Floss and Threader or Flossers – If you pack traditional floss in your braces survival kit, make sure to throw in some floss threaders to help you get behind your brackets.
For quicker flossing, you could put a pack of flossers in your kit instead. Several brands make flossers that are specifically designed to work with braces.
4. Travel-sized Mouthwash – Rinsing with mouthwash will help your breath stay fresh throughout the day and will remove food particles and kill germs from places your travel toothbrush didn’t reach. Select a mouthwash that has fluoride to protect against cavities.
5. Orthodontic Wax – During the initial phase of orthodontic treatment and for the first few days after adjustments, your lips, tongue, and the insides of your cheeks may become irritated from your braces.
Orthodontic or dental wax will act as a barrier between your mouth and the sharp or rough surfaces of your braces, and will reduce any discomfort you may be experiencing.
Even after your mouth adjusts to your appliance (don’t worry, it will!), it’s still a good idea to keep some wax on hand in case of an emergency. It will protect your mouth from a broken wire or damaged bracket until you can see your orthodontist to have it repaired.
6. Compact Mirror – it’s also a good idea to Include a compact mirror in your braces kit. A quick check in a mirror after eating will prevent those awkward moments of getting caught with food stuck in your braces 😉
7. Lip Balm – Your lips may become more dry or chapped during your orthodontic journey, so lip balm is another item you’ll want to keep in your braces kit – especially in the dry winter months!
8. Tissues – You might notice a little more drool while getting used to your braces. Keeping some Kleenex on hand will help if needed.
9. Water – Your mouth may also feel dryer than usual when you first get your braces on, so it’s a good idea to keep a bottle of water with you.
10. Pain Relievers – Over-the-counter pain relievers such as Advil or Tylenol can ease the pain of new braces or discomfort after an adjustment. Use only as directed, and only when needed.
You should also check with your school to make sure pain relievers are allowed before including them in their braces survival kits.
Include any other additional items that will help make your braces experience more comfortable while you are at school!
Come see us for your FREE consultation (no referral necessary!). Book below, @ www.drtooth.ca or call 306-653-3955!
Stephenson Orthodontics
301 The Tower at Midtown
201 1st Ave South
Saskatoon, Saskatchewan
S7K 1J5
