Preparing for the holidays entails anticipating that you will be busier than usual. There will be dinner plans to make, time to spend with family and loved ones, and a lot of shopping to get done as quickly and efficiently as possible. Because of how hectic this time of year can be, staying on top of everything you need to keep your dental health in tip-top shape is especially important. This entails going above and beyond to optimize your aligner use. If you think you’ll struggle to keep up with them this holiday season, consider some of these tips to improve your Invisalign aligner practice.
They should be worn daily
Wearing your aligners as directed is the most important thing you can do. Wearing Invisalign aligners for most of the day, ranging from 20 to 22 hours, is recommended by the American Dental Association. However, if you find yourself forgetting to wear them due to the holiday rush, setting cell phone reminders may be a good idea to keep your hours up. Failure to wear your aligners may jeopardize your teeth’s long-term straightening. This can make the procedure more painful.
Keep the storage case nearby
Keeping your storage case with you is one of the most important things you can do to avoid losing your aligners. This is especially important when eating and drinking while wearing aligners. Many people simply wrap their aligners in a napkin, which is risky because they may be thrown out with other napkins. Bring your case and, to avoid losing your aligners, remember to put them away after you’ve finished at the table.
Brush and floss regularly
Maintaining your flossing and brushing routine is critical. This includes not only brushing and flossing twice a day, but also flossing and brushing after meals. This is significant because the aligners prevent bacteria from accumulating and growing in your mouth. With so much eating and drinking at parties and family gatherings, good oral hygiene is essential. Another good way to protect your teeth is to carry mouthwash with you.
Before you start drinking, take out your aligners
You have a better chance of avoiding tooth discomfort and structural issues with your aligners if you remove them before drinking. Hot liquids can cause tooth sensitivity and warp the shape of your aligners if you do not remove them. During the holidays, anything from hot coffee to tea can cause your aligners to become damaged, so remove them before drinking and remember to replace them after brushing your teeth. This simple safety precaution can help you save money on future replacements.
Speaking with the professionals at Clear Smiles will allow you to determine whether Invisalign is right for you or your child. Call us or send us an email to schedule your free consultation today!