If you’ve started your journey to a straight smile with clear aligners, the holidays will look a little different this year. You don’t want to add any delays to your treatment, but you don’t want to miss out on seasonal celebrations, either. Although you’ll have to pay more attention to your smile, you can still enjoy the holidays with clear aligners. Here are a few tips to keep your treatment on track over the next few weeks.
1. Wear Your Aligners Long Enough
Clear aligners are popular because you can take them out. Although you can remove them any time you want, you must wear them for at least 22 hours per day. Each aligner applies pressure to move your teeth gradually. If you don’t wear them for the recommended time, your teeth won’t move correctly, which can cause complications later on.
2. Switch Your Aligners On Time
Your orthodontist will instruct you to change your aligners every 1-2 weeks, depending on your treatment plan. Changing your aligners too soon can cause your teeth to move too quickly, resulting in pain and unnecessary problems. If you wear your aligners longer than the recommended time, it can add delays to your treatment. Set a reminder on your phone to swamp out your aligners. Don’t forget to bring extra aligners with you if you’ll be traveling for the holidays.
3. Remove Your Aligners When Eating
You won’t have to watch what you eat because your aligners are removable. Take them out when having anything except water. Brush your teeth and rinse your aligners before putting them back into your mouth.
4. Keep Your Mouth Clean
Commit to brushing your teeth in the morning, at night, and after every meal to prevent plaque and food residue from getting trapped between your aligners and your enamel. Floss your teeth at least once daily.
5. Keep Your Aligners Clean
Besides keeping your mouth clean, don’t forget about your aligners. They should be cleaned at least twice daily using a soft-bristled toothbrush and a clear hand soap or dishwashing liquid.
6. Carry Your Storage Case
Carry your storage case with you to have a safe, clean spot to store your aligners when you’re not wearing them. This will also help you avoid misplacing them.
By this time next year, you can have a straight, beautiful smile by committing to your orthodontist’s instructions during the holiday season.
About Dr. Davis Witt
Dr. Witt strives to provide a stress-free orthodontic process. He achieved his dental degree at the University of Connecticut’s School of Dental Medicine and has completed his orthodontic training at the University of Washington. He regularly continues his education to provide the most up-to-date solutions, like clear aligners. Request an appointment on his website or contact his office.
