If you’re moving into a college dorm for the first time, the list of what you need to bring can seem endless. Even if you’re not sharing a bathroom with any of your peers, having all of your toiletries in one pouch helps you keep track of your essentials. Make sure you’re organized and prepared to take care of your smile by packing a few key dental items! Here are 5 essential things to put in your dorm dental kit.
#1. Toothbrush & Toothpaste
Maintaining your dental hygiene routine is crucial to your oral and overall health. When you’re away from home and no longer under your parent’s supervision, your teeth are your responsibility! Making sure to keep your sweet or acidic treats in moderation while dedicating a few minutes at the start and end of your day to oral hygiene will protect your smile for years to come.
A soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste can keep your mouth clean and enamel strong. Make a habit of brushing your teeth for at least two minutes twice a day to preventcavities, tooth decay, and other dental issues.
#2. Floss & Floss Picks
Let’s face it: your toothbrush can’t reach everywhere. The nooks and crannies between your teeth are hotspots for collecting cavity-causing debris. Flossing twice a day removes these particles and stops tooth decay and gum disease. Include a pack of floss and/or some floss picks in your dorm dental kit to protect your smile. If you have your own bathroom, investing in a water flosser is another great option for your oral hygiene routine.
#3. Travel-size Mouthwash
In addition to giving you fresh breath, mouthwash helps prevent tooth decay and infection by preventing plaque buildup. Swishing mouthwash around in your mouth can also loosen up any hidden food particles you might have missed while brushing. It’s important to recognize that mouthwash is NOT a replacement for brushing and flossing.
#4. Over-the-Counter Pain Medication
An over-the-counter pain reliever is good to have on hand to manage any discomfort you might have. Toothaches or soreness in your mouth can happen at any time. If you’re experiencing prolonged or increased pain, however, you must go see your dentist so any issues can be treated quickly.
#5. Sterile Saline Solution & Gauze
A sterile, dental saline solution can be used to flush out wounds and clogged passages, reducing your risk of infection and cleaning affected areas. You can also place a knocked-out tooth in this solution until you can see your dentist within the hour. Gauze can help manage bleeding if you chip, crack, or knock out a tooth.
About the Author
Dr. Phillip Sehnert has been protecting the oral health and smiles of the Lewisville area for three decades. At Sehnert Precision Dentistry, he offers a wide array of dental services ranging from cleanings to implants. If you’re heading off to college for the semester, squeezing in a final dental checkup can set your smile up for success. Contact Dr. Sehnert through his website or by phone at (972) 420-0042.