Orthodontics of South Miami is your one-stop shop for all things smile-related! With that in mind, sometimes we all get a little sick. Especially around this time of year, even Miami isn’t immune to cold and flu season! Luckily, Dr. Ross and Dr. Rothenberger are on the case. Read on to learn all about your guide to orthodontics when you’re sick!
Managing Orthodontic Care During Illness
When you’re undergoing orthodontic treatment, it’s crucial to maintain good oral hygiene and follow your treatment plan. However, illness can disrupt your routine and make taking care of your braces or aligners more challenging. Here’s how to manage your orthodontic care when you’re not feeling your best:
Maintain Basic Oral Hygiene
Even when you’re sick, you must continue to brush and floss your teeth regularly. Use a soft-bristle toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste to clean your teeth and braces gently. If you have aligners, remove them before brushing and rinse them thoroughly before placing them back in your mouth.
Additionally, consider using an antimicrobial mouthwash: An antimicrobial mouthwash can help reduce the bacteria in your mouth, especially when you’re dealing with an illness. Swishing with mouthwash for 30 seconds after brushing and flossing can provide an extra layer of protection for your teeth and braces.
Stay Hydrated
Staying hydrated is essential for your overall health and can help alleviate some discomfort associated with orthodontic treatment. Drink plenty of water, especially if you have a sore throat or dry mouth due to illness.
Try warm saltwater gargles: If you’re experiencing a sore throat, gargling with warm salt water can provide temporary relief. Dissolve half a teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water and use it as a soothing gargle to help reduce discomfort while keeping your throat and mouth hydrated.
Over-the-Counter Pain Relief
If you experience discomfort or soreness from your braces or aligners while you’re sick, consider using over-the-counter pain relief medication, following the recommended dosage. This can provide temporary relief from any orthodontic discomfort.
Use orthodontic wax for added comfort: In addition to pain relief medication, orthodontic wax can be your best friend during illness. Apply a small piece of wax over any areas of your braces or wires that are causing irritation. This will help prevent further discomfort while you recover from your illness.
What to Do If You Have an Orthodontic Emergency
Sometimes, illness can lead to unexpected orthodontic issues. Here’s what to do if you encounter an orthodontic emergency while you’re sick:
Broken Braces or Wires
If a brace or wire becomes loose or breaks, it’s essential to address it promptly. You can use orthodontic wax to temporarily alleviate any irritation. Contact our office as soon as possible to schedule a repair appointment.
Avoid attempting to fix it yourself: While orthodontic wax can provide temporary relief, never attempt to fix broken braces or wires on your own. Leave the repairs to the professionals to ensure your orthodontic treatment remains on track.
Lost or Damaged Aligners
If you’re wearing aligners and they become damaged or lost due to illness or other reasons, contact Dr. Ross and Dr. Rothenberger for guidance. Depending on the situation, they may advise you to move on to the next set of aligners or provide alternative solutions.
Keep your previous aligner: If you lose or damage an aligner, it’s a good idea to keep your previous set as a backup. This can be especially helpful during illness or if you encounter any issues with your current aligners. Dr. Ross and Dr. Rothenberger can advise you on how to proceed while ensuring your treatment progresses smoothly.
Nutrition and Diet Tips
Maintaining a nutritious diet is vital for your overall health and can help you recover faster when you’re sick. However, some dietary considerations are specific to orthodontic patients:
Soft Foods Are Your Friends
When you’re under the weather, opt for soft, easy-to-eat foods that won’t put extra stress on your braces or aligners. This includes foods like soups, yogurt, mashed potatoes, and smoothies.
Avoid Sugary and Acidic Foods
Sugary and acidic foods and beverages can increase the risk of tooth decay and enamel erosion, which is even more critical when you have braces. Avoid these foods while you’re sick to protect your oral health.
Vitamin C for Healing
Vitamin C is known for its immune-boosting properties. Consider incorporating vitamin C-rich foods like citrus fruits into your diet to help your body recover from illness more quickly.
Communication with Dr. Ross and Dr. Rothenberger
Dr. Ross and Dr. Rothenberger is your partner in achieving a beautiful smile, and they can provide valuable guidance during illness:
Keep Dr. Ross and Dr. Rothenberger Informed
If you’re too ill to attend a scheduled appointment or if your treatment plan is affected by your illness, don’t hesitate to contact our office. They can reschedule your appointment or make necessary adjustments to your treatment plan.
Follow Their Advice
Dr. Ross and Dr. Rothenberger know your treatment plan best. If they recommend any specific adjustments or provide guidance on how to care for your braces or aligners during illness, be sure to follow their advice diligently.
Give Us a Call!
By following these guidelines and maintaining open communication with Dr. Ross and Dr. Rothenberger, your orthodontic journey will stay on track even when you’re not feeling your best. Orthodontics of South Miami is here to support you every step of the way, helping you achieve that beautiful smile you’ve always dreamed of, even during cold and flu season. Don’t let illness stand in the way of your orthodontic progress – take care of yourself, and your smile will thank you!