Invisalign: Navigating Holiday Food and Fun

The most wonderful time of the year is officially here! Whether you are traveling out of town or celebrating at home, it’s easy for your usual routine to fly out the window. While the slower pace and time of relaxation is much needed after a long year, it’s important not to let your oral hygiene best practices fall to the side, especially if you have Invisalign in Newark. Fortunately, you can stay on track with your treatment plan while enjoying all this season has to offer by using the below tips!

#1. Wear Your Aligners 22 Hours a Day

Thanks to Invisalign’s clear aligners, you can discreetly achieve your dream smile in record time – if you wear them for the recommended amount of time that is. Neglecting to wear them for 20 to 22 hours a day can prolong your treatment, adding weeks or months to your timeline. To prevent that from happening, refrain from taking them out for extended periods. If you have difficulty remembering, try setting a reminder on your phone!

#2. Keep a Special Storage Case With You

One of the biggest culprits of extended Invisalign treatment is misplaced aligners. To prevent them from accidentally getting thrown away, never wrap them in a napkin or tissue. Instead, place them in a special storage case (preferably one that is brightly colored or has a distinct pattern) anytime you are brushing your teeth, eating, or drinking.

#3. Brush and Floss After Every Meal (and Snack!)

Brushing and flossing consistently is a crucial part of any oral hygiene regimen, but it is especially important for patients with Invisalign. Not only does neglecting to do so leave your aligners prone to staining, but it can also trap bacteria, food particles, and debris against your teeth, making you significantly more susceptible to decay. So, make sure to always reach for your toothbrush and flosser before putting your aligners back in.

#4. Remove Your Aligners When Eating and Drinking

Although one of the most important rules is never wearing your aligners when you eat or drink, during the holidays it can be tempting to take a sip of hot chocolate or taste your favorite dessert with them in. However, doing so can cause the once discreet, clear aligners to become discolored and yellow. Plus, warm temperatures can warp their shape, rendering them virtually ineffective. Therefore, make sure to always pop them out of your mouth when eating or drinking (with the exception of water).

Fortunately, Invisalign is designed to be hassle-free, so you can enjoy all this season has to offer without extensive food restrictions and obtrusive metal. Just make sure to keep the above tips in mind to stay on track throughout the festivities!

About the Practice

Wigal Orthodontics is a family-owned business founded on one simple vision: providing each patient with a lovely, healthy smile. Led by Dr. Timothy G. Wigal, each member of the team uses their years of hands-on experience, clinical expertise, and genuine passion for crafting perfectly straight teeth to help patients of all ages achieve their smile goals. If you are looking for an orthodontist in Newark or have questions about Invisalign, don’t hesitate to visit our website.