Caring for your Invisalign aligners does more than just ensuring that you get the best cosmetic results. In this time where COVID-19 is still lurking and influenza activity is at its peak, handling these orthodontic devices properly helps you stay safe from illnesses.
As they are something that you remove and put back inside your mouth now and then, you have to be mindful of how you handle and care for them. You need to be cautious as to when and where you remove them, as well as how you store them when not in use.
To help you stay safe during this colds and flu season, here are some Invisalign aligner care tips you should keep in mind:
Practice and Maintain Good Oral Hygiene
Proper personal and oral hygiene is essential, with or without rampant diseases. It is instrumental in keeping bacteria, germs, and other harmful microorganisms out of your mouth.
However, during these highly sensitive times, you must observe stricter hygiene practices. Always remember to do the following:
- Wash your hands before and after handling your Invisalign aligners.
- Clean your aligners thoroughly and regularly.
- Be mindful of where you are placing them when not in use.
Doing these three fundamental steps ensures that your aligners are free from any virus or bacteria before you wear them again. On top of that, it also ensures that you aren’t transferring any virus you picked up elsewhere onto them.
Avoid Removing Your Aligners Unnecessarily, Especially When in Public
Invisalign aligners are meant to be more comfortable and less painful than the traditional metal braces. Therefore, you generally won’t need to remove them now and then. The only times you must take them out is when you are about to eat or drink.
That said, you have to be mindful of where you are when removing your aligners. If you must remove them while at school, at work, in a restaurant, or other public places, clean your hands first. Furthermore, make sure you have your aligner case with you and place your aligners in them. Never place them on unsanitized surfaces!
Wear Your Aligners As Much As Possible
The general rule is to wear your aligners for around 22 hours a day. Doing so will help you stay on track regarding your treatment schedule.
If you do catch a cold or get sick, you are still required to wear your Invisalign aligners and maintain them the way you normally do. However, if they seem to be amplifying your symptoms, you may remove them until you feel better.
You may take them out if you are experiencing headaches as well as sinus pain, which is usually felt in the mouth and cheeks. It would be better to remove them if you have nausea and vomiting as well.
Conclusion
If you take a closer look at it, caring for your Invisalign aligners during these times is not that complicated. It is a lot like how you would care for and maintain your aligners under normal conditions. However, the key difference is that you must practice more caution and mindfulness when it comes to handling them. Practicing good oral and hand hygiene while storing your aligners properly will help you stay safe during this colds and flu season.
Looking for a skilled cosmetic dentist in Mansfield, TX? We’re the ones for you! Ivy Rose Family Dentistry is amongst the premier providers of Invisalign treatment in the area. Call our office today to learn how we can help you restore the beauty of your smile.
