Emergency preparedness has spiked in the last couple of years, whether you are preparing for natural disasters or a zombie apocalypse. It seems everyone has a “bug-out-bag” or 72 hour kit, but there is one category that most of these emergency essential kits fails to include. That is dental care. Not only should you keep your teeth in tip top shape for your everyday health, but also in case there are emergencies. Below are six things to make sure to include in your emergency preparedness kit to help keep your teeth in shape just in case.

Toothbrush

Every kit needs to include a toothbrush, as you will need to keep your teeth clean and debris-free. If you do not have toothpaste, just brushing with a toothbrush will be enough. You can pack finger brushes, disposable brushes that have toothpaste on them, or chew-able toothbrushes.

Toothpaste

Toothpaste is a necessity in your emergency kit, although it may be hard to pack due to its potential to explode and coat everything in minty-freshness. Luckily, there are a few options to combat this eruption. You can always use salt or baking soda in a pinch, or even purchase toothpaste powder or toothpaste tablets. Optionally you can make your own version of the toothpaste tablet by drying “toothpaste dots” on aluminum foil for a few days, coat them in baking soda and keep them in a plastic bag.

Floss

Flossing removes plaque in between teeth and along the gumline in places that your toothbrush cannot reach. Pack boxes of floss in your emergency kit to ensure that your teeth will be healthy even in emergency situations. You should never floss with string or hair as it will damage your gums and fibers will flake off and become stuck between your teeth.

Emergency Filling/Crown Repair Kits

Local drug stores supply emergency dental kits to repair broken fillings and crowns. They will allow you to eat and ease some of the pain of the injury. They come with q-tips, a wooden applicator and temporary filling material. Make sure to follow all of the directions on the bottle, including properly removing debris.

Extra Set of Dentures or Retainer

If you have a retainer or dentures, make sure that you have an extra set on hand just in case If you lose or break your only pair, it will be incredibly difficult or impossible to obtain another during emergency situations.

Ibuprofen

Although this is probably already in your emergency kit, it doesn’t hurt to make sure that you include an anti-inflammatory painkiller in case of injuries or dental problems. If you do not have a painkiller, salt rinses can temporarily ease the pain of a toothache.