Quick Answer: Can You Eat with Invisalign?
Although it's technically possible to eat while wearing Invisalign aligners, it's certainly not recommended. Additionally, you should avoid drinking any beverages besides water while wearing your retainers.
Consuming food can damage and stain the aligners. Additionally, if you eat with your retainers in, it will be bothersome and time-consuming to clean your teeth, gums, and retainers after each meal.
Thankfully, Invisalign's design allows for simple and easy removal before meals, making this a small adjustment for most wearers.
Rules of Eating/Drinking with Invisalign
Do:
Remove your aligners before eating or drinking anything besides water
Rinse your aligners after removal
Store your aligners in a safe place while eating
Brush and floss your teeth before reinserting your aligners
Don't:
Chew food or gum with your aligners in
Drink hot beverages with your aligners in, as it may warp the plastic
Leave aligners out in the open while eating, to avoid losing them or exposing them to bacteria
Understanding Invisalign
Invisalign offers an innovative approach to teeth straightening.
Unlike traditional braces, Invisalign aligners are virtually invisible, comfortable, and removable.
Each aligner is custom-made to gradually move your teeth into their ideal positions.
This subtle, yet effective method of orthodontic treatment has made Invisalign a popular choice among both teens and adults.
Why You Shouldn't Eat with Invisalign In
Chewing food while wearing your Invisalign aligners might seem convenient, but it could lead to a number of issues.
Food particles can become trapped between your teeth and the aligners. It will be tedious and time-consuming to clean your mouth and aligners after eating.
Additionally, the physical act of chewing could cause the aligners to crack or warp, undermining the effectiveness of the treatment.
Drinking with Invisalign: What Can You Have?
While wearing Invisalign aligners, it is recommended to only drink water. Consuming other beverages can potentially stain or damage the aligners and contribute to tooth decay. Here's a more detailed breakdown:
Water: Safe to consume with aligners in, as it won't cause damage or discoloration. Staying well-hydrated also helps keep your mouth clean and healthy.
Coffee and Tea: These drinks can stain your aligners, leading to discoloration over time. The heat from these beverages may also warp the plastic. Always remove aligners before consuming hot drinks.
Sparkling Water: While seemingly harmless, flavored sparkling waters often contain acids that can cause harm to your teeth and aligners. Plain, unflavored sparkling water should be safe, but it's best to remove your aligners just to be sure.
Soda and Sugary Drinks: Not only can these drinks stain and warp your aligners, but they can also lead to tooth decay if sugar gets trapped between your teeth and the aligner. Always remove aligners before consuming such beverages.
Alcohol is another area of concern. Clear spirits mixed with clear mixers may seem harmless, but the sugar and acidity levels can harm your teeth. Dark or colored alcohols can stain your aligners. Like with other beverages, it's best to remove your aligners when consuming alcohol.
The simple rule of thumb is: if it's not water, take your aligners out before you drink it. And always remember to clean both your teeth and your aligners before putting them back in to avoid trapping harmful substances against your teeth.
Snacks & Invisalign
Even for quick snacks or drinks other than water, it's advised to remove your aligners.
Many foods and beverages can stain your aligners or cause them to become cloudy, reducing their discreet appearance. Additionally, food particles can become lodged under the aligners, providing a breeding ground for bacteria.
As if that’s not enough, the Invisalign trays are easily broken, particularly if used for chewing food.
Eating at Restaurants with Invisalign
When dining out or attending social functions, it's crucial to have your Invisalign case on hand. This allows you to safely store your aligners while you eat.
To maintain optimal oral hygiene and prevent any food residue from disrupting the aligners' fit, rinse your aligners and, if possible, brush your teeth before reinserting them.
What to Do If You Eat with Invisalign In
Mistakes happen and you might occasionally forget to remove your aligners before eating. If this occurs, promptly remove them after you've finished your meal.
Rinse your aligners under lukewarm water and brush your teeth to remove any food particles that may have become trapped.
Care and Cleaning of Invisalign Aligners
Maintaining the cleanliness of your Invisalign aligners is essential to your orthodontic treatment.
Clean your aligners each time you brush your teeth, using a clear, antibacterial soap and a toothbrush dedicated to your aligners.
This ensures they remain clear and odor-free, and it helps maintain their effectiveness in straightening your teeth.
Impact on Eating Habits
The use of Invisalign may require an adjustment to your snacking habits due to the necessity of removing your aligners before you eat and cleaning your teeth afterwards.
While this might initially seem inconvenient, some users view this as a beneficial side effect, helping to reduce impulsive, unhealthy snacking.
Final Thoughts
While the convenience of eating with Invisalign aligners might be tempting, it's highly advised against eating while wearing your aligners. Taking proper care of your aligners, including removing them during meals, is integral to maintaining your oral health and ensuring the success of your Invisalign treatment.
FAQs
Can I drink coffee with Invisalign?
To avoid staining your aligners and trapping sugar near your teeth, you should remove your aligners before drinking coffee. Coffee drinking will quickly leave unpleasant stains on your retainers.
What happens if I eat with Invisalign in?
If you accidentally eat with your Invisalign in, trapped food particles could potentially lead to dental issues. The chewing process can also damage your aligners, impacting their effectiveness. If you accidentally eat while wearing your aligners, take them out promptly and rinse them thoroughly.
Can I chew gum with Invisalign?
Chewing gum is not advised while wearing Invisalign aligners. The gum can stick to and potentially damage the aligners. Always remember to remove them before chewing gum. Additionally, the act of chewing gum is fairly uncomfortable while wearing aligners or any kind of retainers.
* Though the author of this post is a licensed dentist in the state of Kansas, this information is provided for informational and educational purposes only. Please use your best judgment and contact emergency medical services in the event of an emergency.