You’ve picked out the perfect holiday gifts for just about everyone in your life – everyone except that one person who wears braces. Since caramels, popcorn, and many other popular seasonal treats are out of the question, you don’t have many options. Why not get them something that will make it easier to deal with having braces? Here are six braces products that your loved one with braces will truly appreciate!
1. Electric Toothbrush
Several studies have shown that compared to manual toothbrushes, electric toothbrushes are more effective at removing food particles from the teeth. Not only does this make them better at preventing tooth decay and gum disease, but they also leave the mouth feeling much fresher after brushing.
2. Water Flosser
Trying to maneuver a string of traditional dental floss around brackets and wires can feel next to impossible. A water flosser can make the process simpler. As the name implies, this device releases a steady stream of water that rinses out lingering food debris and plaque from between the teeth as well as in and around the brackets.
3. Floss Picks
Individual floss picks are much easier to control than regular floss. Plus, they’re more convenient to use in public. By giving your loved one a pack of floss picks to keep in their bag, they’ll always be prepared if any pieces of food get stuck in their braces.
4. Mini Dental Kit
Speaking of being on-the-go, most orthodontists recommend that people with braces clean their teeth after every meal. That’s not always possible at lunchtime or if the person is traveling. In these cases, a mini dental kit can be a lifesaver. These kits usually contain a travel-sized toothbrush, tube of toothpaste, container of mouthwash, and floss. They’ll make it a snap for your loved one to enjoy a squeaky-clean smile wherever they go!
5. Orthodontic Wax
Virtually everyone who has worn braces has suddenly felt a sharp pain and discovered that a bracket or wire had scraped the inside of their mouth. Save your loved one from this discomfort by gifting them a pack of orthodontic wax. All they need to do is place a small piece of it over the sharp edge of their braces, and their sensitive oral tissues are protected.
6. Refillable Water Bottle
Sodas, sports drinks, and fruit juices aren’t exactly healthy for anyone’s teeth, but they can be especially harmful for people with braces. These beverages bathe the teeth in sugar, and it can be hard to clean the lingering particles when brackets and wires are in the way. Encourage your loved one to hydrate with water instead by giving them a water bottle that can be conveniently refilled.
Wearing braces isn’t exactly fun, but with these holiday gifts, you can give the person with braces in your life a much easier time while they wait for a straightened smile!
About the Author
As a board-certified orthodontist in Huntington, NY, Dr. Justyna Balicka serves patients of all ages at Huntington Orthodontics. With her impressive expertise, gentle chairside manner, and convenient office hours, she’s sure to help patients feel comfortable throughout every step of their treatment. She provides a number of orthodontic services, including traditional braces, clear braces, and Invisalign. To learn more, contact Dr. Balicka at 631-423-7857.