How to Survive Cold & Flu Season with Invisalign

Ensuring that your clear aligners are properly handled and cleaned is essential while undergoing Invisalign treatment. This is key to achieving a straighter and healthier smile. Although you might not consider the time of year significant, this is particularly crucial during cold and flu season. Here are several helpful tips to navigate the season while safeguarding both your oral and overall health.

Tips #1: Stay Hydrated

When feeling unwell, a stuffy nose commonly leads individuals to breathe through their mouth, causing it to become drier than normal. Increased mouth dryness heightens the susceptibility to tooth decay. Consuming ample water can mitigate this effect, helping to fend off harmful bacteria.

Tips #2: Keep Your Teeth Clean

Dealing with illness can be challenging, but maintaining regular brushing and flossing habits is crucial. Ignoring basic oral hygiene can lead to deteriorating dental health and increased vulnerability to decay and other dental problems.

In addition to prioritizing oral care, it’s important to be mindful of the medications you consume while sick. Many cough drops and cough syrups contain high amounts of sugar, which can erode tooth enamel and create an environment for harmful bacteria to thrive.

Consider opting for sugar-free alternatives or rinsing your mouth after consumption to remove some of the sugar residue. If you’ve experienced vomiting, rinsing can also help eliminate residual stomach acid from the mouth.

Tips #3: Pay Attention to Your Hands

To prevent cold or flu germs from contaminating your aligners, make it a habit to wash your hands meticulously and frequently. If washing your hands before handling your Invisalign isn’t feasible, utilizing an aligner removal tool is a smart alternative.

Tips #4: Keep Your Space Clean

It’s essential to maintain cleanliness by regularly sanitizing your desk and any equipment you utilize throughout the day. Consider acquiring additional retainer cases to store in locations where you frequently remove your Invisalign, and refrain from placing your aligners on unclean surfaces to prevent harmful germs from adhering to them. Have hand sanitizer and wipes readily available as well.

Whether you’re under the weather or feeling fine, it’s crucial to consistently maintain proper dental care for both your teeth and your Invisalign. By adhering to the aforementioned suggestions, you can safeguard your dental health and steer clear of potential oral health issues during this cold and flu season!

About the Practice

Serenity Orthodontics operates five offices across Georgia, ensuring convenient access to quality and dependable care for their patients. Their goal is to transform dental visits from a chore into an opportunity for learning about maintaining healthy and beautiful teeth. If you’re dealing with crooked teeth and require treatment, they provide Invisalign to address smile gaps and enhance your confidence. To schedule an appointment with Serenity Orthodontics or to explore their orthodontic services further, visit their website for contact details for their six convenient locations.