It’s that time of year again – the season when everyone starts getting sick with colds and flus. These types of illnesses would make you feel icky on a normal day, but now you’re also wearing Invisalign aligners, and mucus and plastic trays don’t mix!
To give yourself the best possible chance of avoiding colds and flu, you’ll need some tips. Fortunately, you’re looking in the right place. Keep reading to learn how to keep germs far, far away from your Invisalign.
Watch (and Wash) Your Hands
You have to touch your aligners with your hands. A lot. So what happens to the germs on your fingers when you go to remove or reinsert Invisalign? That’s right – they get transferred to your trays and straight into your mouth! Dirty hands do not make for a hygienic oral environment when you’re wearing clear aligners.
Be careful of what you touch before handling your plastic trays, and make sure to thoroughly wash or sanitize your hands.
Keep Your Spaces Clean
It’s pretty easy for germs to get on your hands, but did you know that desks can have up to 400 times more bacteria than a toilet seat? That’s a lot of ick. Put in an extra effort to keep your personal spaces tidy and clean this flu season, and absolutely do not rest your aligners on top of any tabletops, notebooks, desk mats, or any surface that isn’t their own case!
Buy Useful Germ-Fighting Products
Hand sanitizer might be the first thing that comes to mind. Certainly, this is a good one to have on your person, especially when water and soap isn’t readily available. But other products can help you defend your immune system as well, such as sanitizing wipes, hand lotion, lip balm, and zinc supplements. To make sure your aligners are super duper clean, you could also purchase Invisalign cleaning crystals and let them soak while you eat.
Stay Hydrated and Go to Bed on Time
Finally, one of the best things you can do to avoid getting sick is help your body help you. Proper hydration and rest are essential for a fully functioning immune system. Your biology can’t fight off illness very well if it’s sleep deprived and dehydrated!
It can be tricky to prevent colds and flu when it’s cold and dark outside. But if you follow these tips, you can give yourself the best chance of making it through sick season with Invisalign.
About the Author
Dr. Payam Ishani completed his orthodontic specialty training at the University of Nebraska Medical Center and is an Invisalign certified provider. A true caregiver at heart, he’s passionate about helping his patients enjoy healthier smiles. He understands that this can be tricky during cold and flu season, and that you might need some extra Invisalign care tips to avoid getting sick. Don’t hesitate to reach out if you’re struggling with your aligners! To contact his office, call 405-254-5094.