November 27, 2021
It’s officially that magical time of the year everyone looks forward to – the holiday season! Many people are excited for all the gift-giving, quality time spent with loved ones, and countless opportunities to indulge in seasonal meals and treats. But don’t forget to follow your Invisalign treatment plan amidst all the fun and excitement. Luckily, we’ve got some tips that can help you stay on track while away from home. Read along as a cosmetic dentist in Allen shares a few ways you can stick to the program.
Wear Your Aligners for the Recommended Amount of Time
Unlike traditional metal braces, Invisalign uses a series of clear aligners to move teeth subtly and comfortably into better alignment. Since they apply constant pressure on your teeth, you must wear your aligners 20 to 22 hours each day for successful treatment. If the hustle and bustle of the holiday season cause you to forget to wear them, consider setting an alarm or reminder on your phone. Otherwise, failing to meet the recommended wear-time can interfere with your treatment plan and lead to discomfort further along in the process.
Always Carry Your Invisalign Storage Case
Some people set their clear aligners on a napkin or countertop while eating, thinking it’s no big deal. Well, doing this can cause you to misplace or toss out your aligners by mistake. Unfortunately, that simple error can cause a significant delay in your treatment. To prevent these accidents from happening, make sure you always carry your Invisalign storage case with you. Any time you remove your trays, you can store them in their designated case to keep them safe.
Clean Your Teeth After Eating
Practicing good oral hygiene is important year-round, but especially during the holidays. You’ll likely be attending many holiday parties where you’ll be indulging in your favorite seasonal foods. Don’t forget to brush and floss your teeth after eating, even if it’s just a small meal or snack! It’ll help lower your risk of cavities, decay, and bad breath. You should always carry a travel kit with you that includes dental care essentials like a toothbrush, fluoride toothpaste, dental floss, and mouthwash so you can clean your teeth before slipping the aligners back in your mouth.
Don’t Forget to Remove Your Aligners
It might seem harmless to take a few sips of hot chocolate while wearing your Invisalign aligners, but it’s actually much more damaging than you think. Once the hot liquid touches the trays, it can warp the structure and interfere with your treatment. If your aligners are bent out of shape, it can cause your teeth to move in the wrong direction. As a result, you may experience discomfort when you advance to the next stage because your teeth are not prepared for that step. Make sure you always remove your aligners before eating or drinking anything that’s not water!
By following the tips outlined above, you can ensure you stay on track with your Invisalign treatment plan while celebrating the holidays with your loved ones!
About the Practice
At P.A. Dental Arts, we’ve got everything you and your family need to maintain good oral health. Our highly skilled and dedicated team will always go the extra mile to ensure you receive the quality dental care you deserve. If you have any questions about wearing Invisalign during the holiday season, we’re more than happy to help. Visit our website or call (214) 383-5511 to speak to a member of our team.