{"id":71,"date":"2021-08-10T13:34:00","date_gmt":"2021-08-10T13:34:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.bricedental.com\/blog\/?p=71"},"modified":"2021-09-17T13:36:57","modified_gmt":"2021-09-17T13:36:57","slug":"back-to-school-tips-for-invisalign-teen","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.bricedental.com\/blog\/back-to-school-tips-for-invisalign-teen\/","title":{"rendered":"Back-to-School Tips for Your Invisalign Teen"},"content":{"rendered":"\n
\"two<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n

August is officially here, which means the first day of school is approaching quickly! Most parents might be jumping with joy because their children are returning to the classroom, but if you have an Invisalign teen, you\u2019re probably more worried than excited. Since they\u2019ll no longer be under your supervision, you might be wondering how you can make sure they keep track of their treatment throughout the day. Luckily, there are several ways you can help them do so. Here are a few back-to-school tips to help your teen stick with the program.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

Pack a Sack Lunch with Soft Foods<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Unlike traditional metal braces, there are no dietary restrictions during Invisalign<\/a> treatment. Although you can eat pretty much anything, the clear aligners might make it difficult to enjoy certain foods. Your teenager\u2019s teeth and mouth tend to feel quite sore at the start of new tray cycles, discouraging them from eating. Does your child complain about discomfort? Consider packing them a lunch with soft foods that are easy to eat! Yogurt, oatmeal, soup, and smoothies are just a few excellent, healthy choices.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Use an Aligner Removal Tool<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

If your Invisalign teen has a challenging time removing their aligners before lunch, it can also prevent them from eating. The plastic trays are often tightest and the most difficult to remove at the start of a new cycle. To make removal prompt and painless, consider getting your teen an aligner removal tool. It\u2019ll make removing the aligners a breeze!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Prepare an Oral Hygiene Travel Kit<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Everyone knows about the importance of good oral hygiene. However, it\u2019s especially important for people wearing Invisalign to keep their mouths clean. Before slipping the aligners back in, your teen must remember to brush and floss their teeth after every meal and snack. If they don\u2019t, food particles can get trapped between their teeth and trays, leading to plaque buildup, decay, and cavities. Help them prevent these issues by packing an oral hygiene travel kit that contains a toothbrush, fluoride toothpaste, and dental floss. They can stash it in their backpack and take it with them everywhere they go!  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Learn to Overcome Common Wear-Time Barriers<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

For successful Invisalign treatment, your teen must meet the mandatory wear-time of 20 to 22 hours a day. Here\u2019s how to help them overcome some common wear-time barriers:<\/p>\n\n\n\n