Invisalign® aligners are a great option for people who want a virtually invisible way to straighten their teeth. Unlike traditional braces, they offer flexibility and convenience in your daily routine, including mealtimes. However, it’s essential to know the rules for eating and drinking with Invisalign® to make sure the treatment works and your mouth stays healthy. This blog will tell you when and how to eat with Invisalign® and share tips for taking care of your aligners and teeth during treatment.
Remove Invisalign® Before Eating
One of the most convenient benefits offered by Invisalign® compared to traditional braces is the ability to remove your aligners before eating. This means you can eat what you want without the restrictions that come with braces, like no sticky or hard foods. However, you should always remove your Invisalign® aligners before eating or drinking anything except water. Eating with your aligners in can crack or warp them and interfere with your treatment plan. Food can also get stuck between the aligner and your teeth, leading to cavities, discoloration, and bad breath.
When you remove your aligners before eating, you help protect them from avoidable wear and tear while still enjoying a variety of foods.
The Do’s and Don’ts of Eating With Invisalign®
The following tips will help you keep your aligners clean and your teeth straightening treatment on schedule.
Best Practices
To keep your Invisalign® aligners clean, clear, and in shape:
- Protect Your Invisalign® Trays: Remove your aligners carefully and put them in their case so you don’t lose or damage them.
- Rinse the Aligners: After removing your aligners, rinse them under lukewarm water to remove saliva and bacteria.
- Prevent Trapping Food Particles: Brushing your teeth before placing your aligners back in after eating is essential to keep them clean.
- Increase Water Intake: If you’re thirsty with your aligners in, water is your safest option.
- Be Prepared: Keep a small kit with a toothbrush, toothpaste, and your aligner case for cleaning on the go.
What To Avoid During Invisalign® Treatment
You don’t have to change your diet much with Invisalign®, but there are some habits and foods to avoid to protect your aligners and mouth:
- Remove Before Eating and Drinking Hot Beverages: Never eat with your aligners in, as this can damage or stain them. Don’t drink hot tea or coffee while wearing your aligners, as heat can warp the plastic.
- Minimize Your Consumption of Sugary and Acidic Beverages: Even when your aligners are out, limit sugary and acidic drinks to help prevent enamel from weakening and causing decay.
By following these simple tips, you can keep your Invisalign® aligners and teeth clean.
Brush Your Teeth Before Putting Invisalign® Back In
One of the most important parts of Invisalign® care is to make sure your teeth are clean before you put the aligners back in. Any leftover food particles or plaque can get trapped between your teeth and the aligner, creating an environment for bacteria to grow.
Failing to brush your teeth before putting your aligners can increase your risk of cavities and gum disease. If you can’t brush immediately after eating, rinse your mouth with water to remove food particles before putting your aligners back in.
Oral Hygiene and Invisalign®
Invisalign® gives you more freedom than traditional braces, but a consistent routine will help ensure a successful treatment.
Brush and Floss Thoroughly
Brush your teeth with a soft-bristled toothbrush after meals and snacks. Flossing daily removes debris stuck between teeth to further reduce the risk of cavities.
Use Mouthwash
A gentle, alcohol-free mouthwash can reduce bacteria and freshen your breath.
Limit Snacking
Invisalign® aligners should be worn 20–22 hours per day. Frequent snacking may require you to remove and clean your aligners more often and can extend your treatment time. To maximize the efficiency of your aligners, try to limit removal times by eating three substantial meals a day instead of grazing throughout the day.
Stay Hydrated
Drinking plenty of water helps rinse away food particles and bacteria to keep your mouth clean and fresh.
Don’t Smoke
Smoking can stain both your aligners and your teeth and reduce the overall effectiveness of your treatment.
By following these Invisalign® eating, drinking, and oral hygiene tips, you can expect a healthy, comfortable, and effective Invisalign® treatment and be on your way to your straighter, healthier smile.
Invisalign® provides convenience and flexibility, especially during mealtimes. By removing your Invisalign® aligners before eating or drinking hot beverages, following proper oral hygiene practices, and being mindful of your diet, you can protect your oral health and enjoy a complication-free Invisalign® treatment.
If you’re interested in Invisalign® or have questions about your aligners, talk to your orthodontist or Invisalign® dentist for personalized advice and support.
Looking for an Invisalign® Dentist in Beverly Hills, CA?
By understanding the best ways to maximize your Invisalign® treatment, you can help ensure a successful outcome and achieve your teeth-straightening goals.
Dr. Kevin Sands is known and respected as a top Beverly Hills cosmetic dentist who offers VIP dental care and orthodontic services in the greater Los Angeles area.
See his Beverly Hills, Invisalign® before and after pics, and call 310.273.0111 to schedule your consultation or fill out our online contact form. We are committed to helping you achieve the straight and beautiful smile you desire.