If you are like most people, December is a busy time for you! You may be organizing get-togethers for friends and family, doing lots of shopping, and preparing to get the new year off to a good start. With all that is going on, it could be easy to let important things slip by the wayside, such as your Invisalign treatment. This blog post contains some important year-end reminders to help your teeth-straightening journey stay on track.
Plan Your Snacks and Meals
During this time of year, there is an endless supply of tasty treats, from eggnog and hot cider to delicious candies and more. While it is fine to enjoy such things in moderation, you should plan when you do so. Otherwise, you might find that you are removing your Invisalign aligners too often, which could prevent you from reaching the required 20 – 22 hours of wear time each day. Try to avoid grazing throughout the day. Instead, eat treats in conjunction with your normal meals.
Keep Your Aligner Storage Case with You
During a big family dinner, things can get a little chaotic. If you place your aligners in a napkin while you are eating, they could easily get thrown in the trash by a well-meaning relative who just wants to help clean up. Be sure to place your aligners in their designated storage case so they stay safe.
Do Not Neglect Oral Hygiene
Maintaining your oral hygiene protects both your aligners and your oral tissues. If you are traveling this December, be sure to bring an oral hygiene kit that contains a toothbrush, toothpaste, and floss. You should also pack your Invisalign cleaning crystals. Make time to excuse yourself after each meal so you can clean your teeth and rinse your aligners, and be sure to thoroughly clean your aligners each night.
Relax and Enjoy Yourself
No matter what your plans are this December, your Invisalign treatment should not take away from your enjoyment. It is okay to remove your aligners when you take photos, and you should feel free to eat your favorite foods. Just be sure to stick to good habits — the last thing you want is a mishap that will adversely affect your treatment or require you to look for emergency dental care!
Meet the Practice
At Northborough Dental Associates, our team is proud to be an Invisalign provider. If you have questions about how to keep up with your treatment during the busy year-end season, we would be happy to speak to you. If you have any urgent issues arise, we are even able to accept same-day patients in many cases. To learn more about how we may be able to serve you, contact our office at 508-571-0358.