How to Enjoy the Holidays While Wearing Invisalign

The holiday season is all about family, friends, fun, and food! It is an exciting time with all the events, parties, and guests. The special times and parties all seem to revolve around food. Most people will admit that any attempts to limit their food intake are virtually impossible during the holiday season. So, what happens if you are wearing dental aligners? Can you enjoy the holidays while wearing Invisalign? 

Removing the Aligners

The best thing about Invisalign is that they are removable. While it is true that you should keep them on as much as possible, there are times when you can remove them. You do not have to skip the holiday meals because of the aligners. 

One needs to remove Invisalign aligners before eating or drinking hot beverages such as coffee and hot chocolate. Removing the aligners will help prevent the formation of stains on the plastic material.

Brushing and Flossing

Brushing and flossing your teeth is vital whether you wear aligners or not. If you are wearing Invisalign during the holidays, make brushing and flossing a priority. This is a time when you are likely to consume many sugary treats and desserts. 

Every time you take off the aligners to eat, make sure that you clean your teeth before putting them back on. This may mean that you need to brush and floss more often than usual, even when you do not feel like doing it! 

Invisalign Storage Case

It is a good idea to carry your aligner storage case with you everywhere you go. You need to store the aligners carefully every time you remove them. Bacteria can grow on the Invisalign if you leave them out in the open. 

Exposure to the air can increase the growth of bacteria. Putting the bacteria-contaminated aligners back in your mouth can result in decay and other dental issues. Keep your aligners in their container when they are not in your mouth.

Soaking the Aligners

Keeping your aligners clean is a vital part of ensuring that you reap the benefits of the orthodontic treatment. Soaking the aligners in warm water will help keep them clean. You should, however, avoid using hot water as it can damage the plastic material. 

Make sure that you stick to the cleaning guidelines provided. Use an anti-bacterial soap that is appropriate for use on the aligners. 

Keep the Aligners for 20 to 22 Hours

Invisalign will work effectively only if you use the aligners as instructed. Make sure that you wear the aligners for at least 20 to 22 hours each day. You might need to remove them more frequently this holiday season, but make sure to stick to the recommended hours. 

The constant pressure is essential to gradually shift the teeth. Remove them only for cleaning and eating. Do not consume snacks or drinks while wearing the aligners.

Wearing Invisalign will allow you to straighten your teeth even as you enjoy the holiday season. You can enjoy the festivities without thinking much about the aligners. The fact that they are virtually invisible means that you will not have to be self-conscious about your smile. Your teeth straightening efforts can continue effectively right into the new year.

For more on wearing Invisalign, visit Align Dental at our office in Boston, Massachusetts. You can call (617) 340-5300 today to schedule an appointment.