Cold and flu season can be challenging enough on its own, but managing illness while undergoing Invisalign treatment requires a little extra care. Since aligners are worn for most of the day, keeping them clean and handling them properly is especially important when germs are circulating. With a few mindful habits, you can protect both your oral health and your overall wellness throughout the season.
Why Cold and Flu Season Requires Extra Care with Invisalign
When you’re sick, bacteria and viruses can easily transfer from your hands and mouth to your aligners. Because Invisalign trays sit snugly against your teeth, germs can become trapped if aligners aren’t cleaned properly. This can increase the risk of reinfection or prolonged illness if bacteria linger on the trays.
Cold and flu symptoms can also disrupt daily routines, making it easier to forget proper oral hygiene or aligner care. Staying consistent during this time helps keep your treatment on track while supporting a healthier recovery.
Clean Your Aligners More Frequently
Regular cleaning becomes even more important during cold and flu season. Rinsing aligners with lukewarm water every time you remove them helps wash away saliva and bacteria. Aligners should also be cleaned thoroughly at least once a day using a gentle cleanser designed for Invisalign trays.
Avoid using hot water, as it can warp the aligners and affect their fit. Keeping aligners clean reduces the buildup of germs and helps prevent unwanted odors or discoloration.
Wash Your Hands Before Handling Aligners
One of the simplest but most effective habits is washing your hands before touching your aligners. Germs from coughing, sneezing, or touching shared surfaces can easily transfer to trays. Washing your hands with soap and water before inserting or removing aligners helps limit exposure to bacteria and viruses.
This step is especially important when you’re feeling under the weather or caring for someone who is sick.
Be Mindful of Medications and Beverages
Cold and flu medications, lozenges, and cough drops often contain sugar, which can increase the risk of cavities if aligners are worn immediately afterward. It’s important to brush your teeth or rinse thoroughly before putting aligners back in.
Staying hydrated is also key. Drinking plenty of water helps flush bacteria from your mouth and keeps aligners cleaner throughout the day.
Store Aligners Properly When Not in Use
Leaving aligners exposed on counters or wrapped in tissues increases the risk of contamination. Always store them in their designated case when not in your mouth. Keeping the case clean and dry also helps prevent the spread of germs.
Replacing your aligner case periodically during cold and flu season can further reduce exposure to lingering bacteria.
Don’t Pause Treatment Without Guidance
It may be tempting to wear aligners less when you’re sick, but skipping wear time can delay progress. If illness makes it difficult to keep aligners in, contact your orthodontic provider for guidance rather than adjusting your schedule on your own.
Staying proactive with aligner care allows you to continue treatment safely, even during cold and flu season.
About the Practice
Sweet Smiles Castle Rock provides orthodontic care focused on comfort, convenience, and healthy results. Dr. Fitzgerald and Dr. Lopez specialize in Invisalign treatment plans tailored to each patient’s lifestyle and needs, helping ensure successful outcomes year-round. Learn more about Invisalign treatment at your first appointment with us.
Call us at (303) 688-9519 or request an appointment online.