Food Restrictions During Invisalign: All You Need To Know

Invisalign has been a great advancement in orthodontic treatment; it is more comfortable for patients than normal braces. Although the aligners are transparent, comfortable and can be taken out, it is important to know what should and should not be done while wearing the aligners. Eating habits and food restrictions should also be taken care of so that the best outcome of Invisalign treatment can be realised. In this guide, you will learn everything that you need to know about food restrictions during Invisalign treatment and how to change your diet to achieve the best results.

Why Do Invisalign Food Restrictions Matter?

One of the most attractive benefits of Invisalign is that the aligners can be taken out by the wearer. This feature provides the liberty of consuming any type of food without having to worry about the wires and brackets, as seen with normal braces. However, while you do not have to think about damaging the brackets, certain food restrictions must be observed to avoid damaging the aligners and to maintain proper oral hygiene.

It is recommended not to consume foods with colour or beverages that can discolour the aligners, harm the plastic material, or alter the desired fit of the aligners. To ensure you get the best results from Invisalign treatment, it is crucial to adhere to the following dietary habits.

Top Invisalign Food Restrictions You Need to Follow

When using Invisalign, adhering to certain food restrictions can help ensure effective treatment and maintain oral hygiene. Here are some top food restrictions to follow during Invisalign:

1) Do Not Eat with Aligners

The first and most important rule of the Invisalign diet is to never consume food while wearing the aligners. Invisalign trays are made of a strong plastic material, but they are not as strong as the forces involved in chewing food. Wearing your aligners when eating results in their cracking, warping or staining, which may be a big letdown to their functionality. Wear your clear aligners only during the day take them off before meals and snacks, and do not forget to place them in the correct case.

2) Sipping Water with Aligners On

Even though it is okay to drink coffee, tea, or soda throughout the day, it is advised to only drink water when wearing Invisalign. Coffee, tea, wines, sodas, and other dark-coloured drinks can stain both teeth and aligners, making them less transparent. Also, if one drinks sugary and acidic products, there is a high likelihood of plaque formation under the aligners, which may cause a risk of cavities.

3) Avoid Sticky and Chewy Foods

With Invisalign, you should avoid hard and sticky foods like chewing gum, caramel, gummy bears and other candies. Such foods can stick to the teeth and aligners and are difficult to remove, leading to an increased potential for dental problems to occur. When you take out your aligners to eat, some sticky foods stick on the trays and may accumulate plaque and cause breath problems if not cleaned.

4) Reducing Consumption of Foods and Beverages With Added Sugars

While it is important to note that sweet items do not directly harm the aligners, they could harm your teeth. The aligners give a cover over your teeth, and due to this, sugars and acid from foods and beverages can be trapped easily. This encourages the growth of bacteria in the mouth, which results in tooth decay, cavities, and gum diseases. To keep your teeth healthy while wearing Invisalign, avoid the consumption of foods high in sugar, and make sure to clean your mouth after eating and before placing the aligners back in.

Read to know: Why Good Nutrition is Necessary for Healthy Teeth?

5) Hard and Crunchy Foods

Candy, nuts, popcorn, etc., which are difficult to chew, should be taken with extra precaution. These foods are not forbidden but they are relatively dangerous when taken as they may cause harm to your aligners. You should avoid eating foods that are hard and cold as they put pressure on your aligners which may crack or get distorted.

Tips for Eating and Drinking During Invisalign Treatment

Here are some tips for having food during Invisalign treatment:

Plan your meals: To minimize the time spent in removing your aligners, ensure that you take meals at the usual hours of the day.

Brush the Teeth After Every Meal: Brush your teeth and floss each time you take a meal before placing your aligners back again. Even if you brush your teeth and remove all the food debris and plaque, it can accumulate under the aligners and lead to tooth decay and periodontal disease.

Stay hydrated: Drinking water throughout the day is good for your health and also good for your aligners.

Carry a travel toothbrush: A travel-size toothbrush and toothpaste will ensure that you are not compelled to let your oral hygiene drop when you are on the move.

Be mindful of temperature: Do not consume hot beverages or foods while wearing your aligners because the heat may damage them. Warm temperatures can also affect the shape of the aligners and cause them to lose their proper form.

Conclusion

Invisalign offers incredible convenience and a discreet way to straighten your teeth, but following the proper food restrictions is crucial for achieving the best results. By avoiding eating with aligners, sticking to water, and maintaining excellent oral hygiene, you'll be on the path to a healthier, straighter smile. At Dentique, we are committed to providing the highest level of care and guidance throughout your Invisalign journey. If you have any questions about your treatment or dietary guidelines, feel free to contact us for expert advice.

Also Read: The Best and Worst Foods for Your Child's Teeth