Moving into a college dorm for the first time comes with a long packing list, and it’s easy for personal oral hygiene essentials to be forgotten or lost amidst the assortment of other items. However, just because your toothbrush might not seem as valuable as a textbook or laptop, that doesn’t mean it doesn’t deserve a spot in your dorm room! It’s just one of the many items you shouldn’t forget as you’re getting your new home for the semester all set up. Here are some other items that you should remember to include in your dorm room dental kit.
Your Toothbrush & Toothpaste
Every dental kit starts with the basics, and your toothbrush and toothpaste are your primary means for cleaning your teeth every day. Your brush should have soft bristles, and you can opt for an electric toothbrush to help ensure you’re being thorough. As for your toothpaste, choose one that includes fluoride.
Dental Floss or Floss Picks
Brushing your teeth actually only cleans about 60% of their surfaces, but flossing is what handles the rest. Both traditional floss and dental floss picks can work here, or if you prefer a water flosser, those work exceptionally well. In any case, floss picks are especially convenient for college life since they’re easy to toss in a backpack and use after meals on the go.
Orthodontic Wax
If you have braces or Invisalign, orthodontic wax is a must-pack item in case a wire or bracket causes irritation or discomfort. It’s also smart to bring extra aligner cases or any other supplies specific to your orthodontic treatment, since these items aren’t always easy to find near campus. However, orthodontic wax can also be useful for a wide variety of dental emergencies or unexpected injuries even if you don’t wear braces.
Your Dentist’s Contact Information
Whether you’re planning to continue visiting your dentist back home, or you’re going to be seeing a new dentist closer to school, dorm life means you’re pretty much on your own if an issue comes up. Knowing who to call can make a stressful situation much easier to handle!
The bottom line is, a well-stocked dental kit is one of the easiest ways to keep your smile healthy amidst the chaos of college life!
About the Practice
Our team here at Ralph Avenue Dental Care has been a staple here in Brooklyn for several years, offering patients in the area a wide range of preventive, cosmetic, and restorative treatment options. If you or a loved one is about to head to college for a new semester, don’t hesitate to let us know so we can make sure your dental health is in top shape! If you have any questions about the blog or you’re ready to schedule an appointment for yourself or a family member, you can reach out online or call today for more information or assistance. Telephone: (718) 531-0300.