Getting a cold can affect your daily routine, including how consistently you follow your orthodontic treatment. If you are wearing clear aligners, it is natural to wonder whether you should continue using them while you are sick.
In most situations, aligner treatment can and should continue even when you have a cold. At the same time, a few practical adjustments can help you stay comfortable and maintain proper hygiene during this period.
At TS Orthodontics, Invisalign treatment is provided for both teens and adults across four locations in Asheville, North Asheville, Rutherfordton, and Marion. With a team of orthodontists, care is focused on creating individualized treatment plans that align with each patient’s smile goals. Whether you are currently in treatment or considering starting treatment, understanding how to manage aligners during temporary disruptions, such as illness, is an important part of staying on track.
Can You Wear Aligners When You Have a Cold?
Yes, you can continue wearing your aligners when you have a cold. Since aligners fit over your teeth and do not interfere with your airway or breathing, they generally do not need to be removed due to common cold symptoms.
However, your comfort and hygiene routine may need slight adjustments depending on how you are feeling.
Situations Where You May Need to Be Cautious
While aligners are safe to wear, certain symptoms can make wearing them temporarily uncomfortable.
Nasal Congestion and Mouth Breathing
If your nose is blocked, you may breathe more through your mouth. This can cause dryness, which may make wearing aligners feel less comfortable. Staying hydrated can help reduce this issue.
Frequent Coughing
If you are coughing often, you might feel the urge to remove your aligners more frequently. This is fine as long as you keep track of wear time and return them as soon as you are comfortable.
Sore Throat
A sore throat can make your mouth feel more sensitive. While aligners do not directly affect the throat, general discomfort may make them feel more noticeable.
Maintaining Hygiene While You Are Sick
When you have a cold, maintaining good hygiene becomes even more important to avoid reintroducing bacteria into your mouth.
Here are a few key steps:
- Rinse and clean your aligners regularly
- Brush your teeth before placing the aligners back in
- Wash your hands before handling aligners
- Avoid placing aligners on unclean surfaces
Keeping your aligners clean helps prevent buildup and supports your overall oral health during recovery.
Should You Remove Aligners More Often?
It is okay to remove your aligners when needed, especially if you are:
- Taking medication
- Drinking warm fluids frequently
- Managing coughing or discomfort
Just make sure you are still wearing them for the recommended amount of time each day, typically 20 to 22 hours, to avoid delays in your treatment.
What If You Feel Too Unwell to Wear Them?
If your symptoms are more severe and you are unable to wear your aligners for an extended period, it is best to:
- Keep your aligners stored safely in their case
- Resume wearing them as soon as you feel better
- Contact your orthodontist if you miss multiple days
At TS Orthodontics, our team can guide you back on track without affecting your progress.
When to Reach Out to Your Orthodontist
You should contact your orthodontic provider if:
- You have stopped wearing aligners for several days
- Your aligners no longer fit properly after illness
- You experience unusual discomfort when resuming use
Timely guidance can help prevent setbacks in your treatment plan.
Stay on Track With Your Treatment
If you are currently undergoing Invisalign treatment and notice any changes while you are unwell, it is important to reach out for guidance rather than making adjustments on your own.
For those looking for an Invisalign provider in North Carolina, TS Orthodontics has four convenient locations in Asheville, North Asheville, Rutherfordton, and Marion. Our team welcomes new patients of all ages and provides care tailored to individual treatment needs.
If you have questions about your treatment or want to discuss your concerns, you can contact our office using the numbers below:
Phone Rutherfordton: 828-276-8479
Phone Marion: 828-408-0458
Phone Asheville: 828-270-7638
Phone North Asheville: 828-248-0582
Wearing Aligners During a Cold: What to Keep in Mind
Wearing aligners during a cold is generally safe and recommended. The key is maintaining good hygiene, staying hydrated, and making small adjustments based on your symptoms.
Staying as consistent as possible with your aligner wear helps keep your treatment progressing as planned. Even during short periods of illness, maintaining your routine where possible can prevent unnecessary delays and support better overall results.