As you head into the holiday season, there’s going to be one big difference this year. You’ve started your journey to a straight smile with Invisalign. You won’t have to worry about brackets and wires drawing attention to your smile when taking family pictures or while chatting with friends; however, the next few weeks can cause unnecessary delays in your journey if you aren’t careful. Don’t worry, here are 5 tips to help you make the most of the holidays while complying with your treatment plan.
1. Wear Your Aligners for 22 Hours Daily
Life can get pretty busy during the next few weeks as you shop for the perfect gifts, enjoy the season’s festivities, or travel. It’s easy to forget to put your aligners in during the hustle and bustle of the holidays. However, it’s important to wear them for at least 22 hours per day, even when you’re not at home.
2. Carry Your Aligners’ Storage Case
If you’ll be away from home more often, carry your storage case with you. You’ll have a safe, clean place to put your aligners when eating or drinking, so you’ll be less likely to break or lose them.
3. Brush and Floss After Eating
You’ll probably be snacking more often, which means it’s time to step up your oral hygiene routine. Brush and floss after every meal to remove food residue, bacteria, and plaque, which can become trapped between your aligners and enamel. Create a travel-sized oral hygiene kit to make it easy to brush and floss, even while you’re on the go. Don’t forget to rinse your aligners before putting them back into your mouth.
4. Drink Plenty of Water
Water is important for keeping your body hydrated, but it’s also crucial for your oral health. Drink plenty of water to combat dehydration to keep your mouth moist, which will decrease oral bacteria growth that can lead to tooth decay, gum disease, and odors. Although you’ll be surrounded by plenty of sweet drinks, always choose water whenever possible.
5. Change Your Aligners on Time
Although you might be preoccupied with the holiday festivities, don’t forget to change your aligners on time, approximately every 1-2 weeks. Not switching your aligner on time or changing them too soon can add delays to your treatment. If you’ll be traveling, don’t forget to bring the next set of aligners with you to stay on track with your treatment’s timeline.
You don’t have to miss out on the excitement of the holidays or compromise your investment. Give your smile the attention it deserves over the next few weeks, and you’ll start the new year one step closer to your goals.
About Dr. Steven Rodriguez
Dr. Rodriquez earned his dental degree at the University of Michigan and regularly continues his education to provide the latest treatments and techniques, including clear aligners, dental implants, and endodontics. He has the qualifications and a reputation you can trust. Contact our office today to request an appointment.