If you are planning to get Invisalign treatment, you most likely have questions regarding how the process works with your eating habits. As much as Invisalign gives you a better and more discreet way of having straight teeth as opposed to the traditional braces, there are several things that your dentist near you will tell you to keep in mind when it comes to meals.
Let’s dig into how Invisalign works with your eating routine, what foods to avoid, and how to make this time of the day easier.
Can You Eat With Invisalign?
The short version is no: you cannot consume food while your Invisalign aligners are on. Take off your Invisalign trays before you drink or eat anything except water. This is for the simple reason that food pieces can get caught between the tray and your teeth, causing a lot of pain and even harm to your teeth. Additionally, eating with these aligners might warp or discolour them.
So, what do you do? You simply remove the aligners before eating and rinse them off as soon as possible afterwards. Also, be sure to clean your teeth before you put the aligners back in to prevent trapping food and bacteria under the plastic.
Tips for Eating with Invisalign
Even though Invisalign requires you to remove your trays before eating, there are still ways to make mealtimes more convenient and enjoyable. Here are some helpful tips to keep in mind:
- Plan Ahead
Since you can’t eat while wearing your Invisalign trays, it’s important to plan your meals around the times when you can remove them. Try to avoid snacking frequently throughout the day. Instead, eat larger meals to minimize the number of times you need to take out your aligners. - Keep a Case Handy
When you take your aligners out, you’ll need a safe place to store them. A handy storage case is a must! It will prevent your aligners from getting lost or damaged. Make sure to clean your case regularly to keep it hygienic. - Brush and Rinse
After eating, always brush your teeth before putting your aligners back in. If you’re unable to brush right away, rinse your mouth thoroughly with water to remove food particles and bacteria. This will keep both your teeth and your aligners clean. - Drink Water with Aligners In
Water is the only thing you can drink while wearing your Invisalign aligners. Avoid sugary or acidic drinks like juice or soda, as they can get trapped under your aligners, leading to cavities or staining.
Best foods to eat with Invisalign
When you remove your aligners for meals, it’s important to be mindful of the foods you choose to eat. Some foods can damage your aligners or affect your dental health, while others are easier to eat with your Invisalign in.
- Soft Foods
Since you’ll need to remove your aligners, it’s best to stick with foods that are soft and easy to chew. Think of meals like mashed potatoes, yogurt, scrambled eggs, and smoothies. These foods are not only gentle on your teeth but also less likely to cause damage to your aligners. - Cut Up Your Food
When eating harder foods, like fruits and vegetables, cut them into smaller pieces to avoid putting too much pressure on your teeth. This will make chewing more comfortable, especially when your teeth are adjusting to the aligners. - Avoid Sticky or Hard Foods
Sticky foods like gum, caramel, or taffy can get stuck to your aligners, potentially causing a mess and damaging them. Hard foods like nuts or hard candy can also harm your aligners or even your teeth. Be mindful of these foods to keep your Invisalign treatment on track. - Limit Sugary and Acidic Foods
Sugary and acidic foods can lead to tooth decay, especially when you wear aligners. Sticky candies, citrus fruits, and soda should be consumed in moderation. When you do have these types of foods, be sure to brush your teeth afterward to prevent any damage.
Foods to Avoid with Invisalign
There are several food types that need to be kept away from wearing Invisalign aligners. These include;
- Hard Foods: Ice, nuts, and hard candies can crack or damage your aligners.
- Sticky Foods: Foods such as caramel, chewy candies, or gum can get stuck to your aligners and hence cause potential hygiene issues.
- Crunchy Foods: Popcorn, chips, and crusty bread can also cause damage to your aligners.
Sodas, sugary tea, or coffee with added sugar are to be totally avoided as they stain and or cause cavities when squeezed into the tight spaces of your aligners.
Maintaining a Healthy Smile with Invisalign
While wearing Invisalign will demand some dietary changes, one can still savor tasty foods and snacks. It is by taking off your aligners prior to eating, good oral hygiene, and averts foods which can damage the aligners and the teeth themselves.
If you are seeking more personalized advice on Invisalign or looking for an Invisalign in Saskatoon, Lakewood Dental is here to help! Our team of professionals will provide the best dental care for you, including Invisalign treatments tailored to fit your needs. Feel free to reach out to schedule a consultation and start your journey toward a healthier, straighter smile!