Invisalign is a popular choice for orthodontics because there are no dietary restrictions, among many other benefits. Just because you can eat anything you want, don’t let your sweet tooth complicate your treatment this Halloween. Here are a few helpful tips to navigate Halloween with Invisalign to avoid hearing any scary news during your next check-in with your dentist.
Carry Your Storage Case with Your
You must remove your aligners when having anything except water, including candy. Carry your storage case with you to have a safe, clean place to put your aligners if you can’t resist your sweet tooth. Don’t forget to rinse your mouth and brush your teeth before putting your aligners back into your mouth.
Moderate Your Candy Consumption
Even one night of indulging in sweet treats can wreak havoc on your dental health. Not to mention, every time you eat a piece of candy, you must remove your aligners. If your aligners aren’t in your mouth, they aren’t doing their job. You can avoid tooth decay and delays in your journey to a straight smile by moderating your candy consumption. Choose one or two pieces of candy and put the rest away for later.
Choose Candy Wisely
Not all candy is viewed the same in the eyes of your dentist. Hard candy must be held in your mouth for several minutes to dissolve, bathing your teeth in a sugary residue. Sticky candy can cling to your teeth, making it difficult to remove and eroding your enamel over time. It’s better to choose chocolate because it is less likely to linger in your mouth. It rinses away much easier to protect your enamel from cavity-causing bacteria.
Drink Plenty of Water
It’s important to stay hydrated when celebrating Halloween. Besides keeping you hydrated, every sip of water will cleanse your mouth to keep it clean. You’ll wash away plaque and any candy residue to keep your teeth clean and your aligners looking their best.
Don’t Forget to Brush and Floss
After a long night of celebrating, don’t forget to brush and floss your teeth before going to bed. Brush your teeth for at least 2 minutes and floss every tooth before calling it a night. Don’t forget to use a soft-bristled toothbrush and mild hand soap or dishwashing liquid to clean your aligners.
Halloween doesn’t have to come back to haunt your smile. Stick to your treatment plan and practice good oral hygiene to keep your mouth clean and healthy.
About Dr. Rajiv Shekhadiya
Dr. Shekhadiya achieved his dental degree from New York University and has continued his training to provide advanced services, including IV sedation, dental implants, and Invisalign. He is affiliated with the American Dental Association, the Texas Dental Association, and the Dallas County Dental Society. Request an appointment through his website or call his office at (469) 607-8009.