To ensure that you get the best orthodontic treatment possible, you need to ensure that you go into it with confidence. While traditional braces are a fantastic way to get your teeth aligned, they require some extra care. That is why it is essential to prepare yourself to keep your smile looking beautiful during your treatment.
Check out these tools to keep your braces functioning well, continue good oral hygiene practices, and ensure you get the best out of the process.
Mini Toothbrush and Floss
While it should go without saying, you should know that braces get a lot of food stuck in them. That is why you should always keep a mini toothbrush and flossing tool nearby to ensure that your smile stays clean. No more embarrassing or cavity-causing particles on the go! Electric toothbrushes that spin in a circular motion are more effective at cleaning braces brackets than handheld toothbrushes.
Travel-Sized Mouthwash
There are so many tiny spaces in your braces. Mouthwash is a fantastic item to include in your survival kit because of this. It can help clean out those hard-to-reach places and leave you with minty fresh breath too.
Dental Wax
Any patient who has undergone orthodontic care can tell you how essential wax is during treatment. It can make all the difference if your mouth is feeling irritated or sore. Wax can be used to cover a metal portion of your braces that is sticking out uncomfortably, insulating your mouth from irritation until you can visit the orthodontist and get the problem fixed.
Over-the-Counter Pain Medication
There is no denying that braces can be painful. It is completely normal to experience discomfort when first wearing them or after they have been adjusted. Over-the-counter medication such as Ibuprofen can be a great way to relieve pain.
Gauze
When you accidentally bite your lips or the inside of your cheek or sustain a cut, gauze can come in handy to clean the area.
Cotton Swabs
Cotton swabs or Q-tips are a great tool to have on hand if an accident occurs. If you notice a wire has popped out, a cotton swab can help you pop it back in.
Lip Balm
Chapped lips are not talked about enough when it comes to braces. To prevent dry lips, make sure you have lip balm on you at all times.
Compact Mirror
Always keep a compact mirror in your braces maintenance kit. With this tool, you can ensure that your teeth are clean and free of any loose wires or food particles.
Water Bottle
Much like mouthwash, drinking water can clean out areas of your mouth that are hard to floss or brush. It also keeps your gums healthy and hydrated.
Your Orthodontist’s Contact Information
Most importantly, keep your orthodontist’s number saved in case of emergency! A good orthodontist will be able to accommodate same-day appointments to take care of emergencies.
When you have these tools, your braces treatment will go smoothly! Ready to learn more? Get in touch with I Song Orthodontics today! We provide orthodontic services in Berkeley, El Cerrito, Albany, and surrounding areas.
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