You’re committed to your smile transformation – through the ups and downs, in sickness and in health, right? After all, your beautiful end results will be worth the wait!
So what happens if you catch a bug or wake up feeling under the weather during treatment? We’re here to answer FAQs about being sick with braces or Invisalign® and give tips on how to handle your orthodontic commitments when you’re not feeling so great.
Good hygiene = Healthy recovery
When you’re sick, maintaining good oral hygiene is still crucial. Your mouth is a direct route to the rest of your body, so a clean mouth is the key to a healthy body.
You’re already keeping your braces or Invisalign aligners pretty clean (right?!) – but on your sick days, it’s important to go the extra mile.
When should I change my toothbrush after being sick?
We recommend that you replace your toothbrush with a fresh, clean toothbrush after you’re sick! Experts advise that you replace your toothbrush once you start feeling better, in order to make sure bacteria don’t linger in your toothbrush or get passed on to family members (Cleveland Clinic).
Should i cancel my orthodontist appointment if I have a cold?
Yes. As a general rule of thumb, if you’re not feeling well, please give us a call to reschedule your appointment. We would rather you rest up and visit us when you’re feeling better!
If you have cold or flu symptoms, we want to help prevent you from feeling worse and prevent the spread of germs. Rescheduling your appointment is better for you, for other patients, and for our team.
Stay hydrated!
Fluids are your friends! It’s crucial that you stay hydrated when sick. Hydration helps the body fight off infections and prevents dehydration, which, consequently, helps prevent symptoms like headaches, fatigue, and dizziness.
Staying hydrated is essential for healing from your illness, but also for maintaining clean teeth with braces or Invisalign. Proper hydration promotes saliva production, which helps prevent dry mouth and reduces the risk of tooth decay and gum disease. Drinking water also helps rid your teeth of food particles and debris that can otherwise contribute to bacteria buildup, plaque and tartar.
Tip: Try to keep a bottle of water with you at all times! Consider buying a new reusable water bottle or tumbler in your favorite color. Staying hydrated is stylish!
Don’t hesitate to reach out to us.
We’re on your team and we’re here to support you. Please don’t hesitate to contact us with any questions about your orthodontic treatment, or questions about how to handle your sickness with braces or Invisalign.
If you experience any “orthodontic emergencies”, like a loose wire, broken bracket, or something just doesn’t feel right – simply reach out to us and let us know. We’ll tell you how to handle the situation at home while you’re sick, or work out a way for you to visit us safely.
Take it easy!
Remember, it’s okay to take it easy when you’re unwell. Your body needs time to recover, and regaining your health is the first priority. Take it as a chance to binge-watch your favorite shows, cuddle with your pet, and give yourself a break!
We hope these tips help you breeze through your treatment – through sickness and health. If you haven’t received your complimentary consultation with Dr. Senties yet, or your child is ready to receive his or her first orthodontic exam, request a free consultation today!
