Invisalign has been a popular alternative to braces, providing a discreet and convenient method for straightening teeth. While the treatment is convenient, navigating daily life, especially dining habits with Invisalign, can be tricky without the right guidelines. Therefore, following the right dining habits is crucial to keep your aligners in top condition and ensure your treatment stays on track.
Can You Eat with Invisalign On?
Eating with Invisalign aligners is not usually recommended. Eating with them can damage the aligners and affect your treatment plan. Invisalign aligners are designed to be removed before eating or drinking anything other than water.
However, there can be some exceptions. Dr. Polina Ingberman from Brace Central says, “If you’re really hungry and want to eat something very soft like yogurt or pudding, it’s possible, but you should remove and clean your aligners as soon as possible to keep them clean.”
Typically, eating with the aligners on can damage or stain them. The aligners are made of a flexible plastic material. Foods and beverages can stain the clear plastic, making it look unappealing.
Additionally, eating with the aligners on can trap food particles between your teeth and the aligners. This can lead to plaque buildup, bad breath, and an increased risk of cavities.
Always remove Invisalign before eating and clean your teeth and aligners before putting them back in to maintain the effectiveness and cleanliness of the treatment.
What Foods and Drinks Can I Eat After Getting Invisalign?
Your teeth and gums might feel a bit sensitive as they adjust to Invisalign. Therefore, it’s important to choose foods that are gentle on your teeth and easy to chew during this period. Here are the foods you should eat immediately after getting Invisalign.
Foods to Eat
- Yogurt
- Soft cheese
- Mashed potatoes
- Scrambled eggs
- Smoothies
- Soups
- Steamed vegetables
- Tender cuts of meat or fish
- Pasta and rice
- Oatmeal
- Bananas
- Berries
- Applesauce
- Ice Cream
By carefully selecting what you eat and drink right after getting Invisalign, you can have a more comfortable adjustment period.
Tips for Eating with Invisalign
Adapting to new eating habits with Invisalign can be challenging. However, with the right tips, you can make the process smoother and keep your aligners healthy and clean. Here are some practical tips for eating with Invisalign:
- Drink only cold or room-temperature water while wearing your aligners. Hot or boiling water can warp them.
- Always put your aligners back in their case when you remove them to prevent losing them and keep them clean.
- Limit snacking to help maintain the recommended 22 hours of daily wear time for the aligners.
- Brush and floss your teeth after every meal before reinserting your aligners. This ensures there are no food particles and bacteria trapped.
- Clean your aligners with a soft toothbrush and water to prevent bacteria buildup.
- Reinsert your aligners immediately after eating and cleaning. Forgetting to reinsert them can affect the treatment outcome.
Brace Central: Experience the Benefits of Invisalign
Brace Central can be your trusted destination for achieving a great smile with Invisalign. At Brace Central, we have an experienced team of orthodontists who specialize in Invisalign treatment to provide personalized plans for precise results. Using cutting-edge technology, we create custom aligners for maximum comfort, efficiency, and exceptional care from start to finish. Are you ready to improve your smile? Call us today at 718-998-1888 for a consultation and start your path toward a more confident smile.
Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice. Individual results may vary. Please consult with a licensed dental professional to determine if Invisalign is the right treatment for you.