4 Tips for Surviving Cold & Flu Season with Invisalign

With the temperature dropping, cold and flu season is now upon us! And it’s not always easy to avoid getting sick during this time of year; but that doesn’t mean your efforts are futile! There are several precautions you should take to protect yourself, and if you have Invisalign, you really want to keep these things in mind since your trays can act as vehicles for bacteria if you aren’t careful. Here are four tips from your dentist to help you survive this cold & flu season if you’re undergoing Invisalign treatment.

1. Keep Your Hands Clean

You should wash your hands before doing anything with your trays. Your trays act as mini petri dishes that can easily pick up germs and transfer them to your mouth. This means that if you have dirty hands, you will inevitably have dirty trays when you go to touch them! Since it’s not always possible to have clean hands when it’s time to remove your trays, using a tool like an OrthoKey or Pul Tool can help you remove them without touching them.

2. Stay Hydrated

Water has many amazing oral health and wellness benefits: it keeps your mouth hydrated, assists with the removal of lingering bacteria, and freshens your breath! It’s also the only fluid you should be drinking when you’re wearing your aligners, as it won’t damage or stain them while also alleviating the dry mouth associated with being sick.

3. Be Prepared

In addition to having all the necessary Invisalign and oral care accessories (dental wax, floss picks, storage cases, etc.), you should stock up on items like hand sanitizer, sanitizing wipes, lip balm, and even lotion. Having things ready that will cleanse bacteria and counter discomfort can ensure you don’t get sick but stay nice and cozy instead! 

4. Keep Your Spaces and Your Stuff Clean

Even though they’re “your” spaces, your bedroom, workspace, and even your bathroom can still contain germs and bacteria that will make you sick! In addition to keeping them clean, consider stocking them with some of the aforementioned supplies, including an extra case for your trays. Also ensure that your personal items are regularly sanitized, including your toothbrush. Since your Invisalign trays will be in direct contact with your hands, which in turn are in direct contact with everything you own, keeping your stuff clean is essential.

This flu season, be sure to take the necessary steps to ensure that you and your Invisalign trays are well-protected. By following these tips, you’re setting yourself up for both a successful treatment and a clean bill of health.

About the Practice

The team at Parkway Vista Dental has proudly served patients and families in the Plano, TX area for several years under the leadership of Dr. Bita Kamali. Dr. Kamali received her DDS from the Baylor College of Dentistry, and her practice is pleased to offer a wide range of services including Invisalign! If you have any questions about the article or would like to arrange a visit, feel free to contact Dr. Kamali through her practice’s website or over the phone for assistance: (972) 818-1300.