Invisalign is a new product in orthodontics, which is a clear and comfortable way of straightening teeth. But for this to keep functioning as clear, effective, and undamaged, proper care is essential. The greatest concern of Invisalign users is how to eat and drink without ruining their aligners.
At Walsh Dental, we treat Invisalign in Burnside to enable our patients to attain a flawless smile while providing them with a step-by-step journey of the treatment. If you are new to Invisalign or beginning your experience with it, this guide will give you key tips on how to maintain your aligners and get the best outcome.
Why Proper Care of Invisalign Aligners is Important
Invisalign aligners are created from a long-lasting thermoplastic material engineered to slowly move your teeth into position. Nevertheless, they should not be used to withstand chewing pressure or be exposed to hot and acidic foods and drinks.
Not properly maintaining your aligners can lead to:
- Staining and discoloration: Your aligners can become yellowed or browned if they come into contact with some foods and beverages.
- Warping and damage: Chewing and hot beverages can warp the aligners.
- Plaque buildup and cavities: Eating with the aligners in can get stuck between the teeth, leading to decay.
- Bad breath and bacterial buildup: bacteria multiply inside the aligners when they are not properly cleaned, leading to bad breath.
By eating and drinking the right way, you can maintain your Invisalign aligners in top condition and carry on with your treatment with no disruption.
Can You Eat with Invisalign?
No, you should never eat when you have your Invisalign aligners on. Chewing stresses them, which may lead them to crack, and food particles will get lodged in them, adding to plaque and halitosis.
What Happens If You Eat with Invisalign On?
- Warping or Cracking: Aligners must not be exposed to chewing forces and can warp or crack.
- Food Sticking: Food particles are trapped between teeth and aligners and cause cavities.
- Discomfort: As Invisalign is a tight fit, chewing pressure will always be uncomfortable.
If you accidentally eat food while wearing your aligners, take them out, rinse your mouth with water, and brush your teeth before you put them back in.
Best Practices for Eating with Invisalign
As you will be removing your aligners to eat, here are some tips to ensure it’s a smooth experience:
Before Eating
- Take out your aligners: Always remove your aligners prior to eating any food. Place them in their case to prevent loss or contamination.
- Pack a travel toothbrush: Brush your teeth after meals, if possible, to clear food particles prior to replacing your aligners.
- Rinse your aligners: If you can’t brush them, rinse with water at least prior to replacing them.
After Eating
- Floss and brush: Brush and floss first to avoid plaque accumulation.
- Rinse with mouthwash if brushing is not feasible. In case you don’t have time, rinse using water or mouthwash to get rid of food particles.
- Inspect your aligners. Check for any food particles or damage prior to replacing them in your mouth.
Following these habits, you can keep your oral health in equilibrium by keeping your Invisalign aligners clean and working.
What Can You Drink with Invisalign?
Though you can consume some drinks with Invisalign, most of them should be avoided for fear of staining as well as damaging the aligners.
Safe Drinks
Water: Plain water is the only drink that is absolutely safe to drink when wearing Invisalign. It won’t stain, harm, or leave deposits on your aligners.
Drinks to Avoid
- Coffee and Tea – They can stain your aligners and teeth in the long term. They can also warp the plastic if taken hot.
- Sugary and Acidic Drinks – Sodas are acidic and sweet, so they are in high danger of cavities and enamel wear.
- Alcoholic Beverages – Red wine, beer, and cocktails discolor aligners, and sweet mixers promote tooth decay.
- Fruit Juices and Sports Beverages – Even fruit juices have acids that can erode enamel and discolor aligners.
Lessening Damage from Drinks
If you need to drink something other than water:
- Use a straw: This limits direct contact between your mouth and the drink.
- Take out your aligners: If possible, remove your mouthpieces first before drinking, and rinse your mouth afterward.
- Brush your teeth: Brush your teeth before placing your mouthpieces back to eliminate any remaining sugars and acids.
Best Foods to Eat with Invisalign
Because you need to take out your aligners so that you can eat, you can theoretically eat anything. Nevertheless, there are some food choices that are more Invisalign-friendly.
Recommended Foods
- Soft and easy-to-chew foods: Yogurt, scrambled eggs, soups, mashed potatoes, and smoothies are easy on your teeth and simple to brush.
- Healthy foods: fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains are good for the health of your mouth and also for Invisalign treatment.
- Hydrating foods: watermelon, cucumbers, and celery make your mouth moist and fresh.
Foods to Avoid
- Sticky or chewy foods: Caramel, gum, and sticky candies are hard to remove from your teeth.
- Hard foods: Nuts, popcorn, and hard candies will likely make your teeth sensitive and painful.
- Highly pigmented foods: Berries, tomato sauce, and curry can potentially stain your teeth, and these might be more visible after undergoing treatment with Invisalign.
How to Keep Your Teeth Healthy During Invisalign Treatment
At Walsh Dental, we always stress the significance of proper oral hygiene when you are wearing Invisalign. Implement the following steps to keep your teeth and aligners in their best shape:
- Brush and floss after each meal: This keeps food from becoming stuck and creating cavities.
- Clean your aligners daily: Use Invisalign cleaning crystals, mild soap, and warm water. Never use toothpaste because it can scratch your aligners.
- Place your aligners in their case: Never leave them exposed on an open surface, where they’ll gather bacteria or get misplaced.
- Visit a Burnside dentist occasionally: Regular checkups confirm your treatment is on the right track and your teeth are healthy.
What to Do If You Eat or Drink with Invisalign by Accident?
Accidents will occur, but timely action will not cause irreversible harm.
If You Eat with Your Aligners On
- Remove them immediately and wash them thoroughly.
- Brush your teeth and your aligners before inserting them again.
- Inspect them for staining or breakage. If broken, consult your Burnside dentist.
If You Drink a Staining or Sugary Drink
- Rinse out your mouth and aligners with water right away.
- Brush your teeth to avoid staining and plaque.
Final Thoughts
Invisalign aligner care can be time-consuming, but by following these simple guidelines, you can ensure a smooth and successful treatment. Removing your aligners during meals, limiting drinks while wearing them, and maintaining proper oral hygiene will keep your aligners clean and functioning properly while protecting your teeth.
At Walsh Dental, we specialize in Burnside Invisalign and are dedicated to helping patients achieve their perfect smile with expert guidance. Led by Dr. Thadsha, our team provides top-tier Invisalign care and professional advice. If you have questions about Invisalign maintenance or need expert assistance, book an appointment with us today. Your journey to a flawless smile starts with the right habits!