As you pack your bags to head back to college, don’t forget about your smile. Between your classwork, studying, working, and other daily responsibilities, it’s easy to neglect your dental health. Don’t let the school year come back to haunt your smile. Here are 5 must-have items to include in your dorm dental hygiene kit.
1. Toothbrush and Toothpaste
Your toothbrush is the most important item used to keep your mouth clean and healthy. The American Dental Association recommends brushing your teeth at least twice a day, if not after every meal. If you’re doing more snacking, brush your teeth more often. Include a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste in your dental kit. Brush all surfaces of your teeth for at least 2 minutes every time.
2. Floss or Waterflosser
Besides brushing, you also need to floss every day. Your toothbrush can’t reach everywhere in your mouth, which can leave up to 40% of your teeth surfaces uncleaned. Flossing is the only way to remove food debris and plaque from areas your toothbrush can’t reach. Pack waxed dental floss that has earned the American Dental Association’s Seal of Acceptance. You can also choose a waterflosser instead of traditional floss. Gentle water pressure will clean the most hard-to-reach areas.
3. Athletic Mouthguard
If you’ll be playing any sports, an athletic mouthguard is a necessity. It will protect your teeth and oral structures from injuries in case of trauma to your mouth. The last thing you need is a sports-related dental emergency interrupting your school year.
4. Over-the-Counter Pain Reliever
Toothaches can happen with no warning, so it’s important to be prepared with an over-the-counter pain reliever. While you manage your discomfort, don’t delay seeing a dentist. No toothache is normal. It’s a sign of an underlying issue, like decay or an infection. If you wait too long to contact your dentist, you might lose your tooth.
5. Dentist’s Phone Number
Even if you’re away from home, you still need to have a cleaning and checkup every 6 months. Find a dentist in the area and have their phone number handy. Routine appointments will keep your teeth and gums healthy to preserve your natural smile. It also lowers your overall oral health expenses because you’re less likely to need costly treatments later. You’ll also avoid dental emergencies because they are often caused by underlying oral health problems, like tooth decay.
Keeping your teeth and gums healthy will ensure your smile looks its best when it’s time for you to walk across the stage to receive your diploma, certificate, or degree.
About Dr. Renu Michelsen
Dr. Michelsen earned his dental degree at the University of the Pacific Art A. Dugoni School of Dentistry and has regularly pursued continuing education in various specialties, including Invisalign, laser therapy, and CEREC. Dr. Michelsen is a member of many professional organizations, including the American Dental Association and the California Dental Association. Request an appointment online or call (714) 706-3460.
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