Halloween is a fun and spooky time of year that many of us look forward to. And one of the biggest highlights of Halloween (especially for children and candy enthusiasts) is the delicious array of sweet treats available. From chocolate bars to gummy worms, the temptation can be hard to resist. But what if you’re currently undergoing orthodontic treatment with Invisalign aligners?
Never fear! Dr. Julie Glud is here to help. Contact Dental Care of Lombard in Lombard, IL, at (630) 629-5700 to get answers to all of your Invisalign questions today!
So, is indulging in Halloween candy a good idea, or should you abstain from sugary treats to avoid complications with your aligners? Let’s dive in and see if we can find a happy balance this Halloween.
The Advantages of Invisalign
Invisalign has forever changed the way dentists approach tooth alignment. Unlike traditional braces, Invisalign offers a level of flexibility that many patients find appealing.
The clear aligners blend in with patients’ smiles, making them almost impossible to detect while wearing. Most notable, however, is the removable nature of the aligners. This makes it easier for patients to eat and care for their teeth with fewer limitations.
Halloween Candy Temptations
Although patients can remove their aligners before eating Halloween goodies, consuming sugar-rich treats can be problematic while on Invisalign. Patients must commit to brushing their teeth and aligners after eating high-sugar foods. Otherwise, residual sugar trapped on the teeth can lead to tooth-destroying cavities.
Furthermore, removing Invisalign aligners for long periods of time can delay the expected results. Research indicates that patients who wear their aligners for 20 to 22 hours daily see better, faster results. So, this means that removing aligners to indulge in Halloween candy can delay progress toward a straighter smile.
Balancing Your Halloween Treats with Invisalign
While moderation is key, indulging in Halloween candy isn’t completely off-limits when you have Invisalign. Here are some tips to help you enjoy Halloween treats while taking care of your aligners and oral health:
Choose Wisely
Soft chocolates and treats that melt easily are generally a safer choice compared to hard candies or sticky sweets.
Remove Your Aligners
Before enjoying your Halloween candy, remove your Invisalign aligners. This will prevent the candy from getting stuck to the aligners or causing damage.
Practice Good Oral Hygiene
After consuming Halloween candy, make sure to brush your teeth before putting your aligners back in.
Carry a Travel Toothbrush
If you’re out trick-or-treating or at a Halloween party, it’s a good idea to carry a travel toothbrush and mini toothpaste with you. This way, you can clean your teeth before reinserting your aligners.
Stay Hydrated
Drinking water throughout your Halloween celebrations can help rinse away sugar and debris from your teeth, reducing the risk of cavities.
Stick to Your Aligner Schedule
In general, it is best to strive for 22 hours of Invisalign wear daily. This means you should limit the duration of time you have your aligners out for candy consumption.
Explore Invisalign in Lombard, IL
If you’re considering Invisalign, remember this: you can enjoy your favorite holiday treats as long as you’re mindful and prioritize oral hygiene. Want to learn more about this orthodontic treatment? Contact Dental Care of Lombard today! Request your Invisalign consultation here or at (630) 629-5700 now.
