This year, you’ve started wearing Invisalign in order to achieve the straighter smile that you’ve always dreamed of. However, the holidays are fast approaching, and you’re nervous about your ability to stick to your Invisalign treatment when you have a much more crowded schedule and a million other things to worry about. Luckily, it’s completely possible to get through the holidays and keep your Invisalign treatment on track with the following 4 tips.
1. Wear Your Aligners for the Required Amount of Time Every Day
Your aligners will only be able to move your teeth to their new positions if you consistently wear them for the required amount of time. You should plan on wearing your aligners for 20 to 22 hours each day; the only time you should take them out is during meals and your oral hygiene routine. To make sure that you don’t forget to put your aligners back in before you head off for the next event on your holiday schedule, you can set an alert on your phone.
2. Always Keep the Storage Case for Your Aligners With You
When you enjoy a meal or snack during a holiday party, you will need to take your aligners out. However, don’t put them in a napkin, as it could result in them getting thrown in the trash by accident. Instead, you should keep the storage case for your aligners with you at all times. That way, when you need to take your aligners out, you can simply place them in their case, where they’ll be safe until you’re ready to wear them again.
3. Clean Your Teeth Before Wearing Your Aligners Again
Once you’re done enjoying your holiday treats, your immediate instinct may be to simply put your aligners back in your mouth right away. However, if there are any food particles still lingering on your teeth, they could get trapped under your aligners and ultimately lead to decay. Thus, before you wear your aligners again, you should always make a brief visit to the restroom so that you can thoroughly brush and floss your teeth.
4. Take Your Aligners Out Before Drinking Hot Beverages
Do you enjoy making a cup of hot chocolate during the holidays? If so, you should always remember to remove your aligners before taking a sip. Exposing your aligners to hot liquids could warp the plastic; as a result, your teeth may not move the way they’re supposed to.
Be sure to follow these tips as well as any other instructions that your dentist gives you regarding your Invisalign treatment. That way, you can protect your aligners and stay on the path toward a straighter smile while also getting the most out of the holidays!
About the Author
Dr. Joseph S. Spades has more than 25 years of dental experience and has received advanced training in orthodontics as well as cosmetic dentistry. He offers fully personalized Invisalign treatment plans for patients with crooked teeth and other orthodontic issues. To schedule a consultation with Dr. Spades at Northeast Arkansas Dentistry in Jonesboro, visit his website or call (870) 931-6323.