Cold and flu season is upon us, and while everyone is stocking up on tissues and chicken soup, orthodontic patients have additional concerns to consider. Maintaining good oral health is always important, but it becomes even more critical when you’re fighting off a cold or the flu. Your immune system is working overtime, and the last thing you need is an oral infection or complication with your braces or aligners.
In this post, we’ll explore three key orthodontic hacks that can help you maintain your oral hygiene and keep your orthodontic treatment on track during cold and flu season. These are simple but effective tips by Dr. James Donaghey to ensure that your mouth stays healthy, even when you’re feeling under the weather.
Maintain a Rigorous Oral Hygiene Routine
Keeping up with your oral hygiene routine is crucial, especially when you’re sick. Germs and bacteria can thrive in your mouth, and if you’re not diligent, you could end up with an infection on top of your cold or flu. Here are some steps to ensure your oral hygiene routine is as effective as possible.
Brushing Tips
When you have braces, it’s essential to use fluoride toothpaste and brush at least twice a day. Focus on cleaning around the brackets and wires, as food particles can easily get trapped in these areas. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and gentle, circular motions to avoid damaging your braces or irritating your gums.
Flossing
Flossing is just as important as brushing when you have braces. Use orthodontic floss or a water flosser to remove food particles and plaque from between your teeth and around your braces. This helps prevent cavities and gum disease, which can be exacerbated by the bacteria in your mouth when you’re sick.
Mouthwash
An antimicrobial mouthwash can kill bacteria and freshen your breath. It’s an excellent addition to your oral hygiene routine, especially during cold and flu season. Swish the mouthwash around your mouth for at least 30 seconds to ensure it reaches all areas, including the back of your throat.
Stay Hydrated
Staying hydrated is crucial for your overall health and can help keep your mouth moist. A dry mouth can lead to bacteria buildup, which increases the risk of infections. Drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep your mouth and body hydrated.
Stay Hydrated and Use Orthodontic-Friendly Remedies
Hydration plays a vital role in your health, especially when you’re sick. Proper hydration can help alleviate some of the symptoms of a cold or flu and keep your mouth healthy. Here are some orthodontic-friendly remedies to consider.
Drink Plenty of Water
Water is essential for keeping your mouth and body hydrated. It helps flush out toxins and keeps your mouth moist, reducing the risk of bacteria buildup. Aim to drink at least eight glasses of water a day, and if you’re feeling under the weather, try to drink even more.
Sugar-Free Cough Drops
Cough drops can be soothing when you have a sore throat, but many contain sugar, which can damage your teeth and braces. Opt for sugar-free cough drops to ease your symptoms without harming your oral health. These alternatives are just as effective at soothing your throat without the added risk of cavities.
Warm Teas with Honey
Warm teas can be incredibly soothing when you’re sick, and honey has natural antibacterial properties that can help fight off germs. However, it’s essential to check with your orthodontist before consuming anything sticky around your braces. If approved, enjoy a warm cup of tea with a teaspoon of honey to relieve your symptoms without damaging your orthodontic appliances.
Avoid Sugary or Acidic Drinks
Sugary and acidic drinks can erode your enamel and cause decay around your braces. Avoid beverages like sodas, fruit juices, and sports drinks, especially when you’re sick. Instead, stick to water, herbal teas, and other orthodontic-friendly options to keep your mouth healthy.
Protect Your Braces and Aligners from Germs
Cleanliness is vital when you’re sick, and this extends to your orthodontic appliances. Germs can easily transfer to your braces and aligners, increasing the risk of infection. Here are some steps to keep your braces and aligners clean and free from germs.
Clean Your Braces and Aligners Regularly
Make it a habit to clean your braces and aligners every day. Use a toothbrush and toothpaste to gently scrub your braces, paying special attention to the brackets and wires. For aligners, use a retainer or aligner cleaning solution to disinfect them and remove any bacteria.
Use a Retainer or Aligner Cleaning Solution
Retainer and aligner cleaning solutions are designed to disinfect your removable appliances and keep them fresh. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to ensure your aligners are thoroughly cleaned and free from germs. This will help prevent infections and keep your treatment on track.
Avoid Touching Your Mouth and Braces with Unwashed Hands
Your hands can carry a lot of germs, so it’s essential to avoid touching your mouth and braces with unwashed hands. If you need to adjust your braces or aligners, wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water first. This simple step can prevent the transfer of germs and reduce your risk of infection.
Carry a Portable Toothbrush and Toothpaste
When you’re sick, you may find yourself needing to brush your teeth more frequently. Carry a portable toothbrush and toothpaste with you, especially when you’re on the go. This way, you can clean your teeth and braces whenever you need to, ensuring your oral hygiene remains top-notch.
Conclusion
Cold and flu season can be challenging, but with these orthodontic hacks, you can maintain your oral health and keep your orthodontic treatment on track. Remember to follow a rigorous oral hygiene routine, stay hydrated, use orthodontic-friendly remedies, and protect your braces and aligners from germs.
By implementing these tips, you’ll ensure your mouth stays healthy and your orthodontic treatment progresses smoothly, even when you’re not feeling your best. If you have any concerns about your braces or aligners during cold and flu season, don’t hesitate to feel free to contact our office.
