Invisalign has been a go-to option for orthodontic patients for years. Not only is it virtually invisible, but treatment is often quicker and easier than traditional braces. The process utilizes a series of clear trays, known as aligners. These aligners are made out of a special material known as SmartTrack that moves with your teeth as they shift. The trays contain no BPA or other harmful chemicals, so you can feel confident wearing them. Simply put: Invisalign is a very popular option for patients of all ages. However, when it comes to enjoying your favorite foods, you’ll have to make some adjustments when wearing Invisalign.
1. Avoid Eating with Your Aligners In
You should always avoid eating while wearing your Invisalign trays. Not only can eating cause them to break and crack, but it can affect the suction the trays have on your teeth, impairing treatment. Likewise, the food that you’re eating can get up and into the trays, causing issues with cavities and bad breath. Try to work your meals and snacks into your day and always remove the trays before eating anything.
2. Brush Your Teeth After Eating
After you’re done eating, brush your teeth thoroughly and consider flossing. Leaving food and plaque behind can contribute to bad breath as well as tooth decay. Food that is stuck between teeth can even have an impact on how well your Invisalign works for you. You’ll need to get into the habit of brushing more throughout the day and may even want to bring a travel toothbrush with you while on the go.
3. Hard, Sticky Foods May Be Difficult to Chew
Even with the Invisalign trays out, orthodontic treatment can leave your teeth feeling sore and tender. This is due to the teeth shifting and causing slight gum irritation. You may find it difficult to eat anything hard or sticky when you’re undergoing treatment. Stick to softer foods like smoothies, eggs and oatmeal while avoiding anything that’s hard like pretzel rods, hard candies and chewy caramels.
4. Don't Forget to Put Your Aligners Back in After Eating
Your aligners should be worn for at least 22 hours every day. Oftentimes, patients forget to put their aligners back in after finishing a meal and brushing their teeth. This greatly affects treatment and can prolong it. Get in the habit of replacing your aligners every time you finish eating and brushing your teeth.
5. Avoid Gum and Staining Beverages
You might assume that you can enjoy gum and staining beverages like coffee and soda with your Invisalign in place. These should be avoided simply because the beverages can stain the aligners and the underlying teeth while the gum can become sticky and problematic to your orthodontic treatment.
Looking for an Invisalign Provider Near You?
By following these simple rules, you’ll have a gorgeous and straight smile for life. Despite how inconvenient it might seem to have to undergo treatment using any type of orthodontic option, just imaging your smile after the Invisalign is removed and what you’ll have for the rest of your life.
If you have any additional questions about Invisalign or are looking for an Invisalign provider near you, don’t hesitate to reach out to Rosenthal Family Dentistry in Sunrise, FL! Our dedicated team is experienced in providing quality orthodontic treatments for families throughout Broward County since 1981!