Cold and flu season is in full swing. When you’re feeling a bit under the weather, you probably turn to OTC cold medications and home remedies to ease your symptoms. Although they can help you recover, they can be bad news for your dental health, especially if you have Invisalign. Cold and flu season doesn’t have to affect your oral health or add delays to your orthodontic treatment. Here are a few tips to keep your mouth healthy and your treatment on track.
1. Stay Hydrated to Combat a Dry Mouth
A dry mouth is common when fighting germs. Stuffy, runny noses can cause you to breathe through your mouth. Not to mention, saliva production can decrease if you aren’t drinking enough water. A dry mouth is a great environment for oral bacteria growth, increasing your risk of bad breath, cavities, and gum disease. It is best to drink plenty of water to keep your body hydrated and your mouth moist.
2. Remove Your Aligners When Taking Medication
You know you’re not supposed to have anything except water while wearing your aligners. This includes liquid cold medications and cough drops. Many contain sugar, so you’ll need to brush your teeth before putting your aligners back in your mouth. If you skip brushing, cavity-causing residue will be trapped between your aligners and teeth.
3. Don’t Forget to Brush and Floss
Although you may not feel like getting out of bed, you must continue to brush and floss your teeth. You can place a cup of water, toothbrush, toothpaste, and floss on your bedside table to make it easier to keep your mouth clean. Don’t forget to clean your aligners, too.
4. Switch Your Aligners On Time
It can be difficult to keep track of the days when you’re battling an illness. Set a reminder on your phone to alert you when it’s time to switch your aligners. Wearing them longer than instructed can add delays to your orthodontic journey.
5. Contact Your Orthodontist
If you’re due for a check-in with your orthodontist, contact their office to inform them that you’re ill. They may instruct you to reschedule your appointment until you’re feeling better.
You can lessen your risk of illness by washing your hands well before inserting or removing your aligners. Keep your aligners in their storage case when you’re not wearing them instead of placing them on germy surfaces, like your table or bathroom counter.
Don’t let a case of the sniffles come back to affect your Invisalign treatment. You can survive cold and flu seasons with no complications by taking a few precautions.
About Dr. Payam Ishani
Dr. Ishani earned his dental degree from the University of California, San Francisco School of Dentistry, and has completed advanced training in orthodontics and dentofacial orthopedics from the University of Nebraska Medical Center. He is committed to lifelong learning through his mission for excellence. Dr. Ishani is a proud member of the American Association of Orthodontists. Request an appointment through his website or call (405) 433-7338.