Are you wearing clear aligners this holiday season? If so, it’s important that you remain diligent with your orthodontic treatment so you don’t fall behind schedule. Otherwise, you may end up wearing your aligners for longer than you originally intended. The good news is that our cosmetic dentist in Holly, MI, has several tips to help you stay on track.
Here’s what you need to know.
Whether you prefer pumpkin spice lattes or hot chocolate, it’s important that you remove your aligners before the first sip. If you don’t, the hot liquid may warp the plastic material of your aligners and alter the fit. Beverages other than water can also stain your aligners, turning them from clear to a dull yellow.
If sugary liquids get trapped between your aligners and your teeth, this can create the perfect storm for cavities. The bacteria in your mouth love to feed on sugar, producing an acid that attacks your teeth and gums.
For the above reasons, we always recommend that you remove your aligners when drinking anything but water. It’s also a good idea to brush your teeth before replacing your clear orthodontic aligners.
To make your life easier, tuck a travel-sized toothbrush and toothpaste into your purse, backpack, or tote. That way, you’ll always be able to practice good oral hygiene—even while you’re on the go.
We understand the temptation to remove your aligners, especially when there are so many seasonal treats to enjoy. However, we recommend saving those snacks to eat during meal times. That way, you’ll be able to continue wearing your teeth aligners for long stretches of time.
You’ll need to wear your orthodontic aligners between 20 and 22 hours per day. If you don’t, you may notice your aligners feeling more tight the next time you wear them. This is because your teeth can start to revert to their old positions when you don’t consistently wear your aligners.
The holidays can be hectic. Whether you’re picking up relatives at the airport or watching children who are home from school, it can be hard to find time for yourself. That being said, it’s important that you continue to prioritize your oral health this holiday season and moving forward.
If you’re a patient with , you’ll need to schedule routine checkups with our office. That way, Dr. Bandy can check your progress and give you the next set of aligners in your treatment plan once you’re ready. With each set of clear aligners, you’ll move closer to achieving your picture-perfect smile.
Related: Pros and Cons of SureSmile® Clear Aligners →
Dr. David Bandy is proud to serve as a cosmetic dentist in Holly, MI. To learn more about , please call Bandy Dental at (248) 634-9251. You may also fill out our online contact form and someone from our team will reach out to you soon.
