Traditional metal braces are a reliable way to achieve a straighter, healthier smile, but they require a bit of extra care. Whether you have food stuck in your braces after dinner with a friend or you’re dealing with a poking wire while at the office, you need to be prepared to handle a variety of situations on the go. Make sure you have everything you need at a moment’s notice by making your own orthodontic kit with all the right supplies! Here are 10 essential tools that need to be in your braces survival kit.

From eating to flossing, it’s no secret that braces come with a lot of changes to your day-to-day life. However, one change you may not be expecting is the health of your gums. Swollen, puffy gums often develop during orthodontic treatment. While somewhat irritating and uncomfortable, this side effect isn’t usually anything to panic about. However, ignoring your gum health could slow down your orthodontic treatment and cause serious oral health problems in the future! Here’s what you need to know about swollen gums with braces and what you should do to keep your smile healthy, comfortable, and on track.