Spring is full of green grass, blooming flowers, and flourishing trees. But for those suffering from seasonal allergies, all of those markers of the season are bad omens. Managing allergies while maintaining proper oral hygiene can be especially challenging if you have Invisalign® in Union Square.
At Village Dental, our Invisalign dentist in NYC understands your concerns and is here to help you with your teeth and aligners this season. With some knowledge and careful planning, you can keep a healthy, happy smile despite your allergy symptoms.
How Allergies Can Affect Your Oral Health
Seasonal allergies can bring on symptoms like nasal congestion, dry mouth, and postnasal drip. While these are frustrating, they can also impact oral health. Dry mouth, for instance, reduces saliva production, creating an ideal environment for bacteria to thrive and increasing your risk of cavities and gum irritation. Postnasal drip can further irritate the throat and gums, leading to discomfort or swelling. You can even experience tooth pain from sinus inflammation.
For users of Invisalign in Union Square, these symptoms may require extra attention to ensure that aligners stay clean and oral health remains optimal. Fortunately, you can confidently manage your clear aligner care with a few proactive measures.
Tips for Managing Invisalign and Seasonal Allergies
Stay Hydrated
Combat dry mouth by drinking plenty of water throughout the day. Sufficient hydration helps alleviate dry mouth and promotes healthy saliva flow, vital in washing away food particles and bacteria (and avoiding the need for dental fillings during treatment). Carry a water bottle to remind yourself to take sips regularly.
Rinse Your Aligners Regularly
During allergy season, mucus from postnasal drip or sneezing can accumulate on your aligners. To keep them clean and odor-free, rinse them with lukewarm water frequently. Make it a habit to rinse your aligners whenever you take them out to eat or brush your teeth. Avoid rinsing with hot water, as it can warp the aligner material.
Maintain Proper Oral Hygiene
Allergy symptoms, such as congestion, often lead people to breathe through their mouths, which can dry out the tissues and contribute to bad breath or gum irritation. Our Invisalign dentist in NYC recommends flossing daily and brushing twice daily to counter these effects.
You can take it a step further by cleaning your aligners daily using a recommended cleaning solution or gentle soap to avoid any buildup of bacteria or debris.
Use Allergy Medications Wisely
Over-the-counter allergy medications can relieve sneezing and nasal congestion, but some antihistamines may cause dry mouth. If this is a problem, ask your doctor or pharmacist about options less likely to cause drying effects, and continue to prioritize hydration.
Be mindful of the sugar content in liquid medicines. Sugary formulations can stick to your aligners and lead to tooth decay. Brush or rinse immediately after taking them.
Address Sinus Pressure and Headaches
Sinus pressure is a common side effect of seasonal allergies, potentially causing discomfort in your teeth and jaw. Wearing your Invisalign in Union Square can amplify sensitivity when pressure builds up. Warm compresses, steam inhalation, or saline nasal spray can help alleviate sinus pressure.
Visit Our Invisalign Dentist in NYC If Issues Arise
Keeping up with dental appointments is helpful year-round, especially during allergy season. Swelling or discomfort caused by allergies can sometimes disrupt oral health, and our dentist can offer tailored advice to address any concerns. At Village Dental, we’re happy to work with you to ensure your Union Square Invisalign treatment stays on track.
Don’t Suffer Through Allergy Season Alone
If caring for your Invisalign in Union Square during the spring is a struggle, don’t hesitate to contact Dental for personalized allergy season tips. Book a visit with our Invisalign dentist in NYC, and together, we can help you achieve a healthy, confident smile—rain or shine!
