Ready for Halloween? You might be counting down the days until you get to enjoy harmless scares, but you might be worried your Invisalign treatment will get in the way. Thankfully, your trays don’t have to cause a hiccup in your celebrations. By following the right tips, you can avoid trouble and delays. Here are four that you should stick to while you enjoy the night.
Avoid Snacking
Candy is a big part of Halloween. You might buy a bag for yourself or for trick-or-treaters, but don’t overindulge. You will need to take out your aligners every time you unwrap sweets, which can cause delays if done too often. Remember to stick to your 20 to 22 hour wear time; that way, you keep your treatment on track.
Steer Clear of Hard and Sticky Candies
Not only should you have candy in moderation, but you should also pick the right choices. Hard and sticky options can be trouble for your smile. They last a long time and can get stuck between your teeth. If you don’t clear them off your smile and put on your Invisalign, then you increase your risk of cavities. Instead, choose things like plain chocolate or peanut butter patties.
Eat Sweets During Your Meals
Since you shouldn’t snack throughout the day with your trays, you might wonder when the right time is to have sweets. The best way you can have them is by eating them during your usual mealtime. You’ll already have your aligners off, so you don’t need to account for lost wear time. Not only that, your saliva will already be in production, helping wash away debris and bacteria.
Drink Plenty of Water
In the end, don’t forget to drink plenty of water. It’s the only beverage you can have with your Invisalign in. It keeps you hydrated and rinses out any particles in your mouth. That way, you reduce your risk of decay. Don’t forget to also brush your teeth and trays. That way, you get rid of plaque that may be on them.
You can still be a part of Halloween celebrations with clear aligners. By sticking to the tips above, you can keep your treatment on track and avoid delays to your results.
About the Author
Dr. Ernesto Ulloa earned his first dental degree from the University of Medical Sciences at Villa Clara and his second at the Boston University Henry M. Goldman School of Dental Medicine. He now has a certificate in Invisalign, allowing him to offer this service to patients in Durham. Dr. Ulloa stays by your side throughout your journey; that way, you have a smoother experience. If you have any questions about caring for your trays, schedule an appointment or call his office at 919-220-4200.