Braces Survival Kit: 5 Must-Have Tools If You Have Braces

Whether you’ve struggled with minor crowding more recently or severe misalignment for years, getting traditional braces is an exciting step toward your dream smile! While this teeth-straightening solution is incredibly effective, it does make your oral hygiene routine more of a hassle. Fortunately, that doesn’t mean the health of your teeth and gums have to suffer. Keep reading to learn a few must-have tools if you have metal braces.

#1. An Interproximal Brush

While your standard toothbrush will definitely clean your teeth, an interproximal brush can make all the difference when you have braces. With a small, flexible end, the bristles on this tiny tool can effectively move around your brackets and between the archwire, ensuring no pesky food particles or debris get trapped. Plus, it’s effective at removing plaque, so it’ll continue to be useful even after you’ve completed your orthodontic treatment.

#2. A Floss Threader

Flossing at least once a day is essential. Without this important oral hygiene step, only about 60% of the surface of your teeth gets cleaned, significantly increasing your risk of dental problems like cavities. The good news is that flossing doesn’t have to be a hassle thanks to floss threaders. You can even opt for “pre-threaded” floss, which is cut to length, compact, and comes in single-use packets.

#3. A Pocket Mirror

One downside of metal brackets and wires is that they easily trap food, leaving more places for plaque and bacteria to hide. Since it can be difficult to see your back teeth in your standard mirror, keep a pocket mirror on hand. If you forget yours or can’t find one, try using the camera on your phone to take a closer look.

#4. Orthodontic Wax

Until calluses develop, your braces may irritate your gums and the soft tissue in your mouth. Fortunately, you can quickly prevent any sharp edges from doing any major damage with orthodontic wax. Simply apply a small amount to the protruding bracket or wire to stop the irritation.

#5. Over-the-Counter Pain Medication

Immediately following your adjustment appointments, you may experience some soreness. After all, your teeth are being guided into an entirely new position! If using a cold compress or rinsing with a mixture of salt and water doesn’t do the trick, take OTC pain medication as directed.

With braces, the last thing you want is for a dental problem, like a cavity, to derail your treatment timeline. To prevent that from happening, make sure to keep the above must-have tools within arm’s reach throughout your treatment!

About the Practice

EPO Dental Specialists is where a team of multi-specialty doctors, the latest technology, and a patient-centered approach to care come together to create one truly exceptional dental experience. Led by Dr. Javier Ortiz, Dr. Yaritza Vazquez, and Dr. Jan Ortiz, we are proud to offer a number of teeth-straightening services, from traditional metal braces to Invisalign. If you are interested in learning more about orthodontic treatment or would like to schedule an appointment, don’t hesitate to visit our website or give us a call at 972-479-1200.