Eating and Drinking with Invisalign: Do’s and Don’ts

Invisalign has revolutionized the field of orthodontics by providing a virtually invisible, comfortable alternative to traditional metal braces. While these clear aligners offer convenience and effectiveness, they also come with certain guidelines—particularly regarding eating and drinking. Proper care during meals and hydration is crucial to ensure the treatment is effective and your aligners remain in pristine condition. This blog will explore the dos and don’ts of eating and drinking with Invisalign.

Understanding Invisalign

Invisalign aligners are custom-made, clear plastic trays designed to gradually shift teeth into their desired positions. Unlike traditional braces, Invisalign aligners are removable, offering greater flexibility. However, this convenience also means patients must follow specific guidelines to avoid damaging the aligners or hindering the treatment process.

Do’s of Eating and Drinking with Invisalign

1. Always Remove Your Aligners Before Eating or Drinking (Except Water)

The number one rule when it comes to Invisalign is to always take your aligners out before eating or drinking anything other than water. Foods and beverages can stain the clear trays, warp the material, or trap particles between the aligners and your teeth, leading to plaque buildup and cavities.

2. Stick to Water When Wearing Aligners

Water is the only safe beverage you can consume while wearing Invisalign. It hydrates your body, rinses away food particles, and keeps your mouth moist. If you must drink while your aligners are in, make it plain water.

3. Brush and Floss After Meals

One of the advantages of Invisalign is that you can maintain good oral hygiene more easily than with traditional braces. After eating, brush and floss your teeth thoroughly before putting your aligners back in. This helps remove food particles and bacteria, reducing the risk of cavities and bad breath.

4. Clean Your Aligners Daily

Whenever you remove your aligners to eat or drink, take a moment to rinse them under lukewarm water to remove saliva and bacteria. At least once a day, clean them using a soft toothbrush and mild soap or Invisalign cleaning crystals. This prevents staining and keeps the aligners fresh.

5. Plan Your Meals Around Wear Time

To achieve the desired results, Invisalign aligners need to be worn for 20–22 hours a day. That leaves just 2–4 hours for eating, drinking, and oral hygiene. Plan your meals and snacks strategically to maximize your aligner-wearing time.

6. Be Mindful of Temperature

If you’re rinsing your aligners or drinking water, always check the temperature. Hot water can warp the plastic aligners, compromising their fit and effectiveness.

7. Carry a Case for Your Aligners

Whenever you remove your aligners to eat or drink, place them in a protective case. This prevents accidental loss, damage, or contamination. Never wrap them in a napkin or leave them exposed on a table.

Don’ts of Eating and Drinking with Invisalign

1. Don’t Eat with Your Aligners In

While it may be tempting to grab a quick bite without removing your aligners, doing so can cause serious damage. The pressure from chewing can crack or warp the trays, and food particles can stain the aligners or get trapped underneath, causing cavities.

2. Avoid Sugary and Acidic Drinks While Wearing Aligners

Beverages like soda, juice, wine, and coffee can seep into your aligners and sit against your teeth, increasing the risk of tooth decay and staining. Additionally, acidic drinks can weaken tooth enamel when trapped under the trays.

3. Don’t Forget to Clean Your Aligners After Removing Them

Skipping the step of cleaning your aligners after meals can result in a buildup of bacteria and plaque on the trays, leading to bad breath and an unpleasant taste.

4. Don’t Use Toothpaste on Your Aligners

Although toothpaste is excellent for cleaning teeth, it can be too abrasive for Invisalign aligners, causing tiny scratches on the surface. These scratches can make the aligners more visible and susceptible to staining.

5. Avoid Chewing Gum

Chewing gum with your aligners in is a definite no-no. Gum can stick to the trays and create a mess that’s hard to clean. Even without the aligners, it’s better to avoid gum altogether, as it can interfere with the treatment process.

6. Don’t Leave Your Aligners Out for Too Long

While you can remove your aligners for meals, leaving them out for extended periods can hinder the progress of your treatment. Remember to put them back in as soon as possible to ensure you’re wearing them for the recommended 20–22 hours a day.

7. Avoid Hot Beverages

Drinking hot coffee, tea, or other beverages while wearing Invisalign can warp the plastic material. Always remove your aligners before enjoying hot drinks.

Additional Tips for Success with Invisalign

Stay Hydrated

Even though you can’t drink most beverages while wearing Invisalign, staying hydrated is crucial. Dehydration can lead to dry mouth, which increases the risk of bad breath and plaque buildup.

Limit Snacking

Frequent snacking means you’ll need to remove your aligners more often, clean your teeth, and then put them back in. To avoid this, try to stick to three meals a day and minimize snacking.

Choose Invisalign-Friendly Foods

During your treatment, focus on foods that are easy to chew and won’t stick to your teeth. Hard, sticky, or chewy foods can be challenging to clean off and might lead to dental issues.

Maintain Regular Dental Checkups

Your orthodontist or dentist will provide periodic checkups to ensure your Invisalign treatment is progressing as planned. Use these appointments to discuss any concerns you have about eating, drinking, or caring for your aligners.

Final Thoughts

Eating and drinking with Invisalign doesn’t have to be a challenge if you follow these simple dos and don’ts. By taking care of your aligners, maintaining good oral hygiene, and adhering to your orthodontist’s instructions, you can enjoy a smooth treatment journey and achieve the smile you’ve always wanted.

Remember, Invisalign aligners are a significant investment in your dental health and appearance. With proper care, you’ll protect this investment and achieve the best possible results. So, keep these guidelines in mind and enjoy the benefits of a straighter smile with Invisalign!

Ready to transform your smile with Invisalign? Dr. Isaac Menasha, DDS, is here to guide you every step of the way! Schedule your consultation today to start your journey toward a straighter, healthier smile. Call us or visit our website to book your appointment. Let’s make your dream smile a reality!