Invisalign is known for being discreet, comfortable, and convenient. But if you’re considering it, one of the first questions you may have is about food. What can you eat while wearing Invisalign, and what should you avoid?
The good news is that Invisalign gives you far more freedom compared to fixed braces. Since the aligners are removable, you can still enjoy your favourite foods, provided you follow a few key guidelines.
According to Invisalign UK, over 15 million people worldwide have chosen Invisalign, with many drawn to the lifestyle flexibility. Let’s take a closer look at what that actually means when it comes to eating and drinking.
Do you have to remove Invisalign to eat?
Yes. Invisalign aligners should always be removed before eating any food or drinking anything other than plain water. This protects the aligners from damage and staining, and also helps maintain good oral hygiene.
Eating with your aligners in can cause them to crack or become misshapen. Food particles can also get trapped underneath, increasing the risk of cavities or gum irritation.
At A1 Dental Surgery’s Invisalign clinic, we advise patients to carry a case with them at all times so they can store their aligners safely during meals and snacks.
What foods should you avoid during Invisalign treatment?
There aren’t many foods that are completely off-limits, but you’ll need to be mindful of what you eat and how often. Since you remove your aligners each time you eat, frequent snacking can interfere with the recommended wear time.
Here are some things to watch out for:
- Sticky or chewy foods such as toffee, gum, or caramel. These can cling to your teeth and make cleaning more difficult before reinserting aligners.
- Staining foods and drinks like coffee, red wine, curry, and tomato-based sauces. These can stain your teeth, which becomes more noticeable with clear aligners.
- Constant snacking. Aligners should be worn for 20 to 22 hours a day. Removing them too often can delay your progress.
The best approach is to stick to structured meals, maintain good oral hygiene, and limit stain-prone foods where possible.
What can you drink with Invisalign in?
Only plain, cool water is safe to drink while wearing your aligners. Hot drinks such as tea or coffee can warp the plastic. Sugary or acidic drinks can seep under the aligner and increase the risk of tooth decay.
If you want to drink something other than water, remove your aligners first. Afterward, rinse your mouth and aligners before putting them back in.
How do you clean your teeth and aligners after eating?
After every meal or snack, it’s best to brush your teeth before wearing your aligners again. This helps prevent plaque build-up, tooth decay, and staining.
If brushing isn’t an option, rinse your mouth with water and give your aligners a quick rinse too. You can also clean the aligners with a soft toothbrush and cool water, or use Invisalign cleaning crystals for a deeper clean.
At A1 Dental, we recommend keeping a small travel kit with a toothbrush, toothpaste, and aligner case so you’re always prepared.
Eat well and smile confidently with Invisalign
Invisalign offers the flexibility to enjoy the foods you love without the restrictions of metal braces. With a few small adjustments to your routine, you can stay on track and still enjoy your daily meals.
Thinking about starting treatment? Book your Invisalign consultation with A1 Dental Surgery and find out how aligners can fit into your lifestyle.
Recent Comments