5 Tips for Surviving Cold & Flu Season with Invisalign

Have you noticed it getting chillier outside? If you’ve started experiencing a runny nose or a cough, then you know cold and flu season has arrived. While these symptoms can easily be remedied with some well-deserved rest, you don’t want to let the situation interfere with your Invisalign treatment. Keep reading to learn five tips on how to stay on track with your orthodontic process during this time of year!

Tip #1: Maintain Clean Hands

Keeping your hands clean is one of the most important ways to avoid oral and overall health issues. The last thing you want to do is introduce harmful bacteria to your body because you forgot to wash your fingers. Since you’ll need to use your hands to take your clear aligners in and out, it’s a good idea to frequently clean them with soap throughout the day. You should also consider using aligner removal tools, like an OrthoKey, to avoid transmitting bacteria to yourself.

Tip #2: Stick to Your Oral Hygiene Routine

It can be easy to forego your oral hygiene regimen if you’re feeling ill or tired. However, since many remedies contain sugar, like cough syrup, leaving your mouth uncleaned can increase your risk of tooth decay. Even if it’s cold and flu season, you’ll need to brush your teeth and clear aligners after every meal to avoid developing cavities.

Tip #3: Keep a Well-Balanced, Vitamin-Rich Diet

Although munching on salty crackers and drinking fizzy sodas can make mealtime enjoyable while you’re ill, you should try sticking to nutrient-dense foods. These can include lean proteins, fresh fruits, and leafy greens. Not only will these energize your body and provide essential vitamins, but they’ll also help you maintain healthy pearly whites in the long run.

Tip #4: Drink Plenty of Water

By consuming lots of water, you’ll be able to remain hydrated throughout the day while also washing away natural bacteria from your teeth and gums. Unlike with foods and other beverages, this is the only drink you can enjoy without having to remove your clear aligners. This means you can stay on track with your Invisalign wear time while keeping your mouth clean and fresh.

Tip #5: Keep the Proper Tools Handy

Make sure to keep essentials nearby for a smooth recovery period if you’re dealing with the flu or common cold. These should involve items like cough syrup, bottles of water, and even unsweetened tea. You might also need products like hand sanitizer, lip balm, and dental wax to remain as comfortable as possible.

Although cold and flu season can affect your overall well-being, you don’t have to let it kick you off track with your Invisalign treatment. Keep these few tips in mind, and you’ll be able to recover easily while maintaining a healthy and happy smile!

About the Author

Dr. Jacob Milner studied at the University of Maryland School of Dentistry. He’s also a proud member of several prestigious organizations like the American Dental Association and the Academy of General Dentistry. He provides a wide selection of advanced services, including Invisalign. If you’d like to know more about surviving cold and flu season during your orthodontic treatment, visit his website or call 410-902-4110.