Getting sick is no fun, especially when you’re also managing orthodontic treatment. Whether it’s a cold, flu, stomach bug, or seasonal illness, feeling under the weather can make everyday routines feel overwhelming. When that happens, it’s easy for oral care to slip down the priority list.
At Ragan Orthodontics, Dr. Michael Ragan understands that sick days look different for kids, teens, and adults. This guide is designed to gently support you through those tough days while helping you protect your braces on sick days and keep your treatment on track. We’ll walk through practical, realistic tips to help you feel better and care for your smile at the same time.
Why Caring for Your Braces on Sick Days Is So Important
When you’re sick, your mouth often takes an extra hit. Fever, dehydration, mouth breathing, medications, and nausea can all increase your risk of plaque buildup, irritation, and enamel damage.
For patients with braces or aligners, illness can also lead to:
- Increased plaque and bacteria around brackets and wires
- Acid exposure from vomiting or cough drops
- Dry mouth from medications or congestion
- Skipped brushing or aligner wear due to fatigue
Being gentle, but consistent, during illness helps protect both your comfort and your orthodontic progress.
Tips for Caring for Braces and Aligners on Sick Days
When you’re not feeling your best, your goal isn’t perfection so much as protection. These tips are designed to beflexible, achievable, and supportive while you recover.
If You Have Braces (Damon Metal or Clear Braces)
- Rinse more often, even if brushing feels hard: If brushing feels exhausting, rinsing with water or a gentle saltwater solution helps wash away bacteria and soothe irritated tissues.
- Wait before brushing after vomiting: Stomach acid weakens enamel. Rinse with water or a baking soda solution first, then wait 30–60 minutes before brushing.
- Use orthodontic wax generously: Illness can make your mouth more sensitive. Wax helps prevent sore spots if your cheeks or lips feel extra tender.
- Choose soft, braces-safe foods: Soups, smoothies, yogurt, applesauce, oatmeal, and mashed foods are easier on sore mouths and safer for brackets.
- Stay hydrated: Dry mouth increases cavity risk. Sip water throughout the day, especially if you’re taking cold or flu medications.
If You Wear Aligners(Invisalign, Reveal, or Ragan Aligners)
- Keep aligners clean, even if wear time dips slightly: If you need short breaks, always store aligners properly and clean them before reinserting.
- Brush or rinse before putting aligners back in: This reduces bacteria getting trapped against teeth when saliva flow is reduced.
- Avoid hot liquids with aligners in: Heat can warp trays, especially when you’re drinking tea or soup for comfort.
- Set reminders if fatigue disrupts routines: Illness can make time blur, so alarms help keep aligner wear consistent.
- Communicate with our office if wear time drops: Dr. Ragan can guide you without judgment if illness impacts compliance.
The most important thing to remember? A few imperfect days won’t ruin your treatment, but ignoring care entirely can create setbacks.
Managing Braces When You or Your Child Is Sick
What if my child skips brushing because they feel awful?
That’s okay, just do your best. Encourage rinsing with water or saltwater and resume brushing as soon as they feel better. One rough day won’t undo treatment.
Should my child still wear rubber bands while sick?
If possible, yes; but if soreness or nausea makes it difficult, let us know. We’ll guide you on the next steps.
Can an aligner wear pause during illness?
Short disruptions happen. Always keep aligners clean and stored properly, and call us if illness lasts more than a few days.
What if vomiting damages brackets or trays?
Rinse first, wait before brushing, and check appliances for damage. Call our Walnut Hill or Inwood office if anything feels loose or uncomfortable.
Are sports drinks or juice okay when sick?
They’re common and can help you feel a bit better, but rinse afterward. Acids and sugars can collect around braces and increase cavity risk.
How can parents help kids manage braces during illness?
Offer soft foods, help with rinsing, remind them gently, and reassure them that recovery comes first.
When should we call the office?
If pain increases, appliances break, or aligners don’t fit after illness, give us a call; we’re here to help.
Compassionate Care for Every Stage of Life
At Ragan Orthodontics, Dr. Michael Ragan treats kids, teens, and adults with care that adapts to real life, including sick days. Whether your child is in early treatment, your teen wears braces, or you’re managing aligners as an adult, we’re here to support you.
With offices in Walnut Hill and Inwood, advanced treatment options like Damon braces, Invisalign, Reveal, and in-house Ragan Aligners, and a team that truly listens, you’re never navigating treatment alone.
Your Healing Comes First
Sick days are just part of existing. Rest, recovery, and comfort matter most. By taking small, thoughtful steps to care for your braces on sick days, you protect your smile without adding stress.
When you’re ready, we’ll be right here. Feel better soon! We’ve got your smile covered.