Cold and flu season is here! During this time of year, it becomes more important than ever to take practical steps to safeguard your health. If you have Invisalign, you may need to be extra-diligent. Taking good care of your aligners and your oral tissues can help you to stay comfortable and keep you on track toward your new smile. Here are four practical tips to help you navigate cold and flu season as an Invisalign patient:
Wash Your Hands Before Handling Your Aligners
Your hands come into contact with countless surfaces throughout the day, including doorknobs, keyboards, and other high-touch areas that harbor germs. Before you remove or insert your Invisalign trays, you should always wash your hands thoroughly. Use soap and warm water, and scrub for at least 20 seconds to get rid of as many germs as possible. If soap and water are not immediately available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer as an alternative.
Store Your Aligners in Their Case, Not on Surfaces
Every time you take out your aligners to eat or brush your teeth, you might feel tempted to set them on a nearby table or desk. However, research shows that the average desk contains far more germs than a toilet seat. Even if you diligently disinfect your workspace, it remains much safer to keep your aligners in their designated storage case whenever you are not using them. This practice prevents exposure to harmful bacteria and helps keep your aligners clean and ready for use.
Clean Your Aligners Thoroughly After Illness
If you catch a cold or the flu, you should continue wearing your aligners unless your dental provider advises otherwise. Once you have recovered, make sure to clean your aligners thoroughly to remove any lingering viruses or bacteria. Use a soft brush and mild soap to gently scrub the trays, or soak them with Invisalign cleaning crystals for a deeper cleanse. This step can lower the risk of reinfection and play a role in maintaining oral hygiene throughout your treatment.
Keep Your Lips Moisturized and Stay Hydrated
Dry, cold air and indoor heating often cause lips to become chapped, and wearing clear aligners can worsen this issue. To alleviate dryness, apply a colorless lip balm that will not stain your aligners. If you notice a film on your trays from the balm, simply wipe it away. In addition, remember to drink plenty of water throughout the day. Staying hydrated not only helps combat dry mouth but also supports your immune system as you recover from illness.
Cold and flu season is just beginning, so now is the perfect time to think about what you can do to protect your health and keep up with your Invisalign treatment.
Meet the Practice
At Santavicca Dental Professionals, our team is committed to providing top-quality care to the Lebanon, NH, community. Invisalign is one of the many services we offer. If you have questions about it or how to enjoy successful treatment, we would be pleased to speak with you. Contact our office at 603-215-7108.