Having a new addition to your mouth like braces can be a bit of a learning curve. They require an additional level of care to keep them looking clean and to protect your teeth from cavities, demineralization (white spots on the enamel), and gum disease during treatment. Thus, it’s important to be prepared to care for them whether you’re at home or on the go. Here are a few essentials you should keep in hand to ensure your smile looks its best while you’re receiving orthodontic care.
Cleaning Essentials
Because food can easily get stuck in your wires and brackets, it is important to always have a toothbrush and tube of toothpaste at the ready. This way you can enjoy meals away from home without worrying about them lingering around in your equipment all day!
Interproximal Brushes
Interproximal brushes are great for getting in the tight spaces your regular toothbrush can’t fit. They are perfect for touch ups between meals, and they are so small they’re easy to take along wherever you go without the need for water or toothpaste.
Floss and Floss Threaders
Flossing your teeth can be a challenge with braces. Floss threaders are handy little disposable devices that help make it a lot easier to go around wires and get in between teeth where food and plaque hides.
Orthodontic Wax
Sometimes when your teeth shift, your wires can become loose and poke your cheek. If this happens, stop by your orthodontist’s office to have it trimmed, and in the meantime, use a product like orthodontic wax to cover the exposed wire and protect your mouth until it can be adjusted.
A Small Mirror
You may think your teeth are looking great, only to have a caring friend point out there’s a bit of lettuce stuck in your bracket, but what happens when your bestie isn’t around? Keeping a small mirror handy is a great way to do random check-ins to be sure there are no embarrassing surprises lurking in your mouth between cleanings!
Pain Relief
Over the counter pain medications can help reduce some of the discomfort caused by wire changes and shifting teeth, so be sure to have a few doses on hand. For students, be sure to check their school’s policy about medication first.
Lip Balm
Chapped lips are a common occurrence with braces, so be sure to have a tube of your favorite lip balm on hand for when they start feeling a little dry.
Remember, braces are a big step on the way to a healthy, beautiful smile, but keeping your teeth healthy during treatment is essential. If you’re heading out, be sure to bring along these important care tools and you’ll keep your teeth looking and feeling great on the go!
About Dr. Buchwald
A former orthodontic patient himself, Dr. Bradley Buchwald knows the impact that a straighter smile can have on your life and is committed to helping each patient improve their lives through oral health. Dr. Buchwald is a board-certified orthodontist and a Diplomate of the American Board of Orthodontics. He is also a member of the American Association of Orthodontists, American Dental Association, and the Texas Dental Association.
To schedule an appointment at Buchwald Orthodontics, please visit our website or call us today at 972-377-5940.