Eating with Invisalign ® aligners will be slightly different from your usual routine, but it is entirely manageable with minor adjustments. We often receive questions about eating with Invisalign, so we have answered the most common ones in this review to help you navigate this aspect of your orthodontic treatment.
Understanding what patients can and cannot do with Invisalign helps them protect their aligners and avoid costly replacements and setbacks in the treatment process. Here are five answers to common questions about Invisalign treatment.
No, patients should not eat with their Invisalign aligners in their mouths. The aligners are not designed to withstand the forces of chewing, and doing so can damage or warp them. Additionally, eating with aligners increases the risk of trapping food particles between the aligners and the teeth, potentially leading to hygiene issues and tooth decay.
It is generally recommended to avoid drinking beverages other than water while wearing Invisalign aligners. Consuming colored or sugary drinks can stain the aligners and increase the risk of cavities, as they may trap liquid against the teeth.
If a patient does want to consume a beverage other than water, they should remove their aligners, enjoy their drink, and then rinse their mouth before re-inserting the aligners. This practice helps minimize the risk of staining and ensures proper hygiene.
Patients can safely remove their Invisalign aligners for meals and snacks. It is recommended to keep the aligners out of the mouth for a maximum of two hours per day. This provides time for eating and enables patients to enjoy their meals without the restrictions of the aligners.
The first thing that patients should do after finishing their meal and before re-inserting their aligners is brush their teeth. This helps remove food particles and bacteria. They should also rinse the aligners with lukewarm water to remove any residual food particles. Next, they should floss between the teeth to remove any food particles that may be trapped and follow up with a mouth rinse to ensure that the mouth is clean and fresh.
Chewing gum while wearing Invisalign aligners is not recommended. Gum can stick to the aligners, making them difficult to clean. Additionally, the repetitive chewing motion may strain or damage the aligners over time. If a patient enjoys chewing gum, they should remove their aligners before doing so. Afterward, they must remember to clean their teeth and aligners before re-inserting them.
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Although there are rules for eating, Invisalign is a simple, safe, and effective treatment solution. If you are not entirely satisfied with the alignment of your smile and want to learn more about how Invisalign can help you, contact us today, and schedule a convenient time to come and visit with us.
Request an appointment or call Robert F. Perler DDS, MS, FAGD at 914-636-8082 for an appointment in our New Rochelle office.
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