Invisalign can be a more convenient and comfortable orthodontic treatment than traditional braces, but it still requires a significant amount of discipline on the part of the patient. Unfortunately, catching a cold or the flu can make it harder to comply with your treatment instructions, but keeping up with great habits and taking certain precautions can help you keep your realignment process on track. Here’s a quick guide to how you can make sure your teeth continue to get straighter during cold and flu season.
Practice Excellent Hygiene
If there’s anything germs hate, it’s good hygiene habits, and Invisalign patients are required to keep their teeth clean by thoroughly brushing and flossing each time before putting their aligners back in. However, it’s also important to keep your hands clean to avoid transmitting flu virus or infectious bacteria to the mouth. Make sure to wash your hands before eating or handling your orthodontic appliances and after using the bathroom or touching objects many people use such as doorknobs.
Keep Your Space Clean
Dust, grime, moisture, and other accumulations in your work or living space can provide germs with the shelter and sustenance they need to thrive and cause all sorts of nasty diseases, so it’s a great idea to clean your area regularly during cold and flu season. To help prevent viruses and bacteria from being transferred to your mouth while you are wearing Invisalign, take care to maintain a clean space by removing clutter, cleaning the floor, and wiping down surfaces with an appropriate sanitation product designed to kill germs.
Stay Hydrated
Water is absolutely crucial to all biological processes, so staying hydrated can be a great way to keep your immune system strong and help your body flush infectious agents away from itself. Water should always be your primary source of hydration, but milk is an excellent option that will deliver a host of vitamins and minerals that will help your body stay strong. Sodas, juices, and alcoholic beverages, on the other hand, can cause dental stains and decay, so it’s best to enjoy these sparingly whether you are wearing Invisalign or not.
Don’t let a preventable illness deprive you of the energy you need to keep your Invisalign process on track. Consulting with your dentist or a sanitation expert can help you understand how to keep yourself clean and healthy throughout cold and flu season.
About the Practice
Coats Dental Group offers the finest oral health services in Longmont. Led by Drs. Brian and Kevin Coats, the staff treats each patient with courtesy and compassion while maintaining a clean and cozy office environment. Areas of expertise include general, restorative, cosmetic, and emergency dentistry as well as Invisalign treatment. To learn more about how you can keep your orthodontic process on track, contact the practice on the web or dial (303) 776-4090.