With cold and flu season gearing up, it can be a tricky time of year for Invisalign wearers. That’s because in addition to the regular exposure to germs, when you wear aligners, you’re constantly putting your hands in your mouth. But don’t despair! Here are a few useful tips that will help you get through these tricky few months and stay as healthy as possible.
Wash Up
Mom always said it, and she was right. You should wash your hands frequently to avoid the spread of illness. During cold and flu season, this is especially important, and even more so if you wear Invisalign. That’s because when you are frequently removing and replacing your aligners, you put your hands in your mouth a lot more often, and if they’re not clean, you could easily transfer all kinds of nasty germs.
Furthermore, when you do take your aligners out, be sure to rinse them well and put them immediately into their case or a glass of retainer soak. Never let them touch a table, sink, or countertop, especially if you’re at work or school.
Finally, make sure you’re taking care of your teeth and gums, too. Brush and floss each time you eat and before you put your aligners back in. This will keep your teeth and gums healthy and help kill bad bacteria and germs in your mouth.
Medication Woes
Should you find yourself ill, keep in mind that many cold medicines can be harmful to your mouth. Cough syrup is usually full of sugar which sticks to your teeth and aligners, so make sure you take them out before using it, and brush your teeth before putting them back in. The same goes for cough drops, which are also packed with sugar and even sugar-free varieties can leave behind a sticky residue.
Stay Hydrated
While you should stay hydrated no matter if you’re sick or not, it’s especially important when you’re not well. Drinking water helps flush your system out and keeps your mouth hydrated. This is extremely important if you’re congested, because if you are breathing through your mouth instead of your nose, your mouth will dry out faster, increasing your risk of cavities and gum disease.
Remember, while cold and flu season is only temporary, taking excellent care of your teeth, gums, and aligners will always be necessary!
About Our Practice
The team at Flenniken Family Dentistry wants to make you part of the family, too! Our highly skilled team of dentists works hard to ensure that patients of all ages are treated with kindness, compassion, and understanding, no matter the situation.
Whether you need a general exam and cleaning, a new set of veneers, or you’re interested in learning more about Invisalign, we’re here to help.
To schedule an appointment, please visit our website or call us today at 717-249-7777.
