With the weather getting chillier and the festive music in the air, you know that the holiday season is here! However, if you’re undergoing Invisalign treatment, then you may be wondering how exactly you’ll keep up with the process. After all, you won’t want to miss out on your favorite meals this time of the year. Read on to learn four tips to help you navigate the festive season with Invisalign.
Tip #1: Wear Your Clear Aligners for 22 Hours Each Day
Between holiday shopping and get-togethers with friends and loved ones, your schedule is bound to be much busier than usual. The last thing you want to do is forget to wear your aligners, as this can cause setbacks in your treatment timeframe. To prevent having to spend more time and money on Invisalign, be sure to meet your 20-22 hours a day wear time for the quickest results!
Tip #2: Brush & Floss After Every Meal
The holiday season is typically known for its tasty treats, from roasted chestnuts and peppermint bark to sugary candies and pecan pie. Though eating these foods isn’t bad itself, forgetting to clean your teeth afterward could spell trouble to your oral health. Without proper oral hygiene, you could end up discoloring your aligners and raise your chances of developing cavities. The best way to avoid these complications and preserve your pearly whites is to brush, floss, and rinse with mouthwash regularly.
Tip #3: Keep Their Protective Case On Hand
While Invisalign clear aligners are made of durable plastic, they won’t be able to withstand the excessive pressure from chewing. For this reason, you’ll need to take them off before enjoying a beverage or meal (except for unflavored water). When removing them, do not place them on the counter or a napkin, as you can easily lose, damage, or throw them away accidentally. Instead, rinse them off and store them in their protective case.
Tip #4: Prioritize Your Orthodontic Appointments
Although your schedule may seem fuller this time of the year, it’s important to visit your dentist for your routine orthodontic checkups. Other than receiving your next set of clear aligners, you should also book your next dental checkup and cleaning if you haven’t already. They’ll check and address any developing issues they find, and you’ll be able to show off a brighter smile afterward.
Since Invisalign provides a quick and discreet orthodontic method, they won’t prevent you from fully enjoying the festivities this holiday season. Keep these few tips in mind, and you should have a smoother experience straightening your smile!
About the Author
Dr. Prashantkumar Gajera earned his dental degree from New York University. He regularly seeks continuing education to expand his expertise and is also a member of the Texas Dental Association and the American Dental Association. He offers a wide variety of high-quality and comprehensive services, including Invisalign. If you’d like to schedule an appointment, visit his website or call him at 817-785-3290.