It’s one of the most sought-after forms of orthodontic treatment today. Invisalign clear plastic aligners are changing the way patients are fixing their smiles, blending seamlessly into everyday life. One of the major perks of Invisalign is the fact that it is removable, which makes everyday tasks, like eating, simpler than with braces.
With braces, there is a list of foods that should be avoided because they can damage brackets or wires. Because aligners are removed when eating, these restrictions don’t apply to Invisalign wearers, making it a clear choice for many undergoing treatment. It should be noted, though, that there are some important aspects to keep in mind when eating with Invisalign. Here’s how Invisalign affects the way you eat.
The Perks of Eating with Invisalign
It’s true, there are fewer food restrictions with Invisalign than with braces. This is due to the fact that the aligners are simply removed when a patient is eating and drinking, making it easier to eat any type of food that you wish. Once removed, the trays should be placed in a secure location, so they are not thrown away or lost. Like braces, there’s an adjustment period when patients first get their aligners and when they switch to a new set. This can cause the teeth to become sensitive, so it’s best to stick to soft foods, like pasta and yogurt, until the slight discomfort subsides.
What to Be Aware of When Eating with Invisalign
It’s important to remember to remove your trays, especially when you’re planning on consuming something that can stain or damage your aligners, such as:
- Coffee
- Tea
- Any hot liquid
- Red wine
- Smoking
Invisalign trays can be severely damaged if they come in contact with hot liquids, so it’s best to remove them in this instance. Limiting the consumption of chewy, sugary foods when you’re an Invisalign patient is also important, as these foods can become stuck to the teeth. This is why proper hygiene is important, so the trays are not placed back on the teeth without brushing first.
The Importance of Keeping Your Teeth Clean
It’s imperative to brush and floss regularly and after eating, even when you have Invisalign. If you place your trays back into your mouth without doing so, you’re opening yourself up to problems, such as tooth decay. Since the aligners fit snug to the teeth, any food particles that are trapped between the teeth can cause the aligners to fit improperly. This can also cause enamel damage, so be sure to clean your teeth before placing your aligners back into their positions.
Eating with Invisalign
It may seem as though there aren’t any restrictions when it comes to Invisalign and your eating habits, but there are aspects to keep in mind. Keeping your teeth clean is imperative, no matter if you’re undergoing orthodontic treatment or not, so adopting these good habits now can save you from problems later. Being a responsible Invisalign patient means listening to your orthodontist, abiding by the rules and taking care of yourself. Do that and you’re on your way to that perfect smile.
The team at Smith Orthodontics is ready to talk to you about your options for treatment! Call (304) 865-0000 to learn more!
