Summer is here, and that means longer days, sunny vacations, and plenty of seasonal treats. But even though you may want to relax and enjoy life this summer, you don’t want to risk your aligner treatment.
The good news? With just a little planning, you can maintain your aligners and enjoy all the fun that comes with the warmer months.
Why Clear Aligner Care is Especially Important in Summer
Clear aligners are a great choice for an effective and nearly invisible way to straighten teeth. However, the summer season means unique challenges like higher temperatures, lazier days, and more travel.
Wear Them for 20-22 Hours Per Day
Your aligners are only fully effective when you wear them for 20-22 hours a day. Summer often brings a change in routines, like school break, vacations, and barbecues, which can make it tempting to cheat when it comes to wearing your aligners for extended periods.
But consistency is key, and less wear can mean longer treatment times. Only remove your aligners when eating, drinking anything other than water, or cleaning them. Set reminders on your phone if you remove them to stay on track.
Keep Your Aligners Out of the Heat and Sun
High temperatures can warp your aligners, making them uncomfortable and less effective. Always keep them out of direct sunlight or hot places like a parked car or poolside table.
Use your aligner case to store them safely, and avoid rinsing them with hot water when cleaning.
Be Prepared for Vacations and Day Trips
Whether you’re heading to a nearby lake or a long summer vacation, don’t forget your travel checklist:
- Aligner Case: Always store your aligners in their case when not wearing them. Leaving them out in the open or putting them in a napkin increases the risk of loss or damage.
- Pack Cleaning Tools: Carrying a disposable toothbrush and/or small floss is a good idea for easy cleaning on the go.
- Bring an Extra Tray: If you’re near the end of your current set, pack your next tray, just in case. This ensures you won’t lose progress if something goes awry. If you’ve just switched to a new tray, it’s a good idea to also put your last tray in your luggage. If you lose your current tray, you can wear your last one until you can get instructions from your orthodontist.
Enjoy Summer Treats
It’s time for some summer classics like ice cream, watermelon, or corn on the cob. Aligners are a great choice because they don’t limit your food options. Just remember to remove them before you eat or drink to avoid stains or damage.
Once you’ve finished your treat, brush your teeth and rinse your aligners before putting them back. This keeps them clean and prevents sugar and bacteria from sitting on your teeth or inside the aligners.
Stay Hydrated
Summer heat can leave you dehydrated, which isn’t just bad for your body; it can also affect your oral health. A dry mouth is more prone to bacteria buildup.
Water is a great choice, not only because it’s healthy but you can also keep sipping without removing your aligners.
Don’t Slack on Oral Hygiene
Summer schedules can be less structured, but it’s important to maintain your oral hygiene routine. This includes brushing your teeth after every meal, flossing daily, and cleaning your aligners regularly.
Keep Your Smile on Track This Summer
Balancing clear aligner care with summer fun doesn’t have to be difficult. If you want to learn even more or have questions about clear aligner care, our team is here to support you. Reach out to us anytime!
