Summer is here, and that means it’s time for beach trips, poolside lounging, and plenty of outdoor fun. If you’re undergoing clear aligner treatment with Clear Smiles, you might be wondering how to keep your aligners safe and clean during all these summer activities. With locations in both Houston and Dallas, TX, Clear Smiles is here to ensure your smile stays on track no matter where your summer adventures take you.
Protecting Your Aligners from Sand and Sun
One of the most common summer challenges for clear aligner wearers is keeping them free from sand and sun damage. Here are some tips to help:
- Always Use Your Case: Whenever you’re not wearing your aligners, keep them in their protective case. This prevents sand from getting into the aligners and ensures they don’t get lost in the hustle and bustle of the beach.
- Avoid Direct Sunlight: Prolonged exposure to direct sunlight can warp your aligners. Keep them in a shaded area, ideally in their case, to maintain their shape and effectiveness.
Swimming with Clear Aligners
Whether you’re diving into the ocean or taking a dip in the pool, it’s important to take some precautions with your aligners:
- Remove Before Swimming: It’s best to remove your aligners before swimming to avoid losing them and to prevent bacteria from the water contaminating them. Store them in your case to keep them safe.
- Rinse After Swimming: If you accidentally swim with your aligners in, rinse them thoroughly with clean water as soon as possible to remove any chlorine or saltwater residue.
Handling Lost or Damaged Aligners
Summer activities can sometimes lead to lost or damaged aligners. Here’s what to do if it happens to you:
- Contact Clear Smiles Immediately: Whether you’re in Houston or Dallas, give Clear Smiles a call as soon as you realize your aligners are lost or damaged. We’ll help you get a replacement quickly to ensure your treatment stays on track.
- Keep a Backup Pair: If you have your previous set of aligners, keep them as a backup in case of emergencies. This can help maintain your progress until you get a new set.
Staying Hydrated
Hydration is crucial during the hot summer months, especially when wearing clear aligners:
- Drink Plenty of Water: Water helps keep your mouth clean and fresh, reducing the risk of plaque buildup on your aligners.
- Avoid Sugary and Acidic Drinks: Beverages like soda, sports drinks, and fruit juices can stain your aligners and promote tooth decay. If you do indulge, make sure to rinse your mouth and aligners with water afterward.
Summer-Friendly Foods
Enjoying summer treats while wearing clear aligners is entirely possible with a few mindful choices:
- Opt for Softer Foods: Soft fruits like berries, yogurt, and smoothies are aligner-friendly and perfect for summer.
- Cut Up Hard Foods: If you enjoy fruits like apples or crunchy veggies, cut them into smaller pieces to make them easier to eat without putting pressure on your aligners.
Clear Smiles is here for you with two locations in Houston and Dallas, TX
Clear aligners are a fantastic choice for achieving a beautiful smile, and summer is a great time to make significant progress in your treatment. By following these tips, you can enjoy all your favorite summer activities without compromising your aligner treatment.
At Clear Smiles, we’re committed to helping you achieve the smile of your dreams, whether you’re soaking up the sun in Houston or exploring the sights in Dallas. If you have any questions or need assistance with your clear aligners this summer, don’t hesitate to reach out to our team.
Enjoy your summer and keep smiling with Clear Smiles!