If one of your New Year’s resolutions is to enjoy a straighter smile, you’ll want to make sure that you do everything you can to stay on track with your orthodontic treatment. This means that as the holidays grow closer, you’ll find it helpful to keep some help tips in mind while wearing ClearCorrect braces. Before you head out of town or prepare to welcome your family into your home, consider these 3 ways to ensure your teeth keep moving in the right direction.
Keep a Travel Oral Hygiene Kit With You
If you are planning to travel this time of year, make sure to keep a travel-sized toothbrush, toothpaste, dental floss, and mouth rinse nearby. You’ll also find it helpful to have an extra protective case when it comes time to remove your clear aligners to eat or drink.
Whether you’re spending 4 or 14 hours in a car, having these items on hand can be helpful when it comes to keeping your teeth and aligners clean, as you don’t want harmful particles and bacteria being transferred back and forth.
Limit Your Snacking
Between the bowl of nuts, candies, and mints that are readily available at your parent’s house, you have the ability to snack as much as you like. However, engaging in this practice will only put your straighter smile at risk.
Committing to this type of treatment means agreeing to wear your trays 20-22 hours each day. Refusing to do so will only cause a delay that can lead to longer timelines. While it might be hard to pass by that candy bowl multiple times each day, remember your long-term goal – straighter, healthier teeth.
Take an Extra Set of Aligners With You
It’s always best to have an extra set of aligners with you when traveling. Your protective case should be used when eating or drinking, but if you accidentally lose one or both of your aligners or damage one along the way, having either your previous set or the next one in the series with you will help.
You’ll want to make sure to call your dentist’s office to inquire about how to proceed but knowing that your teeth won’t stray far from their current location can mean greater peace of mind until you can get back in to see your dental team.
The holidays don’t have to be a difficult time, even while wearing braces. By following a few simple steps, you can stay on track while still enjoying the food, festivities, and fun with family and friends.
About the Author
Dr. M. Kent Smith is a trusted dentist in Edmond who has been practicing for more than 30 years. Completing his dental degree at the University of Texas Health Science Center in Houston in 1986, he received additional training during his residency at the VA Medical Center, the Children’s Hospital, the O’Donoghue Rehabilitation Hospital, and Oklahoma Memorial Hospital. Since opening his practice, he has continued to provide alternative orthodontic solutions for patients who are looking to straighten their teeth but without bulky metal. Using ClearCorrect aligners, he and his team can deliver beautiful results that can last a lifetime. Visit our website or call (405) 341-7773 to let us help you take the next step.