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Eating and drinking with Invisalign can be a hassle. However, it is essential to follow the rules to ensure that the aligners are not damaged and remain effective. Here are eight rules to follow when eating and drinking with Invisalign.
1. Remove the Aligners When Consuming Anything Other than Water
Invisalign aligners are designed to be worn for at least 22 hours daily. However, they should be removed when eating or drinking anything other than water. The aligners can become damaged or stained if worn while eating or drinking, and they may only effectively shift the teeth if properly seated.
2. Clean Your Teeth before Putting the Aligners Back In
After eating, cleaning your teeth before putting the aligners back in is essential. This will help prevent food particles from getting trapped in the aligners, which can lead to bacteria growth and bad breath. Brush your teeth thoroughly and use floss to remove any food particles that may be stuck between your teeth.
3. Avoid Sugary or Acidic Drinks
It is important to avoid sugary or acidic drinks when wearing Invisalign aligners. These drinks can damage the aligners and cause them to discolor or become brittle. Additionally, these drinks can increase the risk of tooth decay and cavities.
4. Use a Straw When Drinking Beverages Other than Water
Using a straw can help reduce the amount of contact between your Invisalign aligners and sugary or acidic beverages. This will help keep the aligners from becoming discolored or damaged. Additionally, using a straw can help reduce the risk of staining your teeth and causing tooth decay.
5. Do Not Chew Gum While Wearing Invisalign Aligners
Chewing gum while wearing Invisalign aligners can damage or distort the aligners, making them difficult to use. Also, gum can get stuck in the aligners, making removing and cleaning them difficult. If you want to chew gum, it is best to remove your aligners first and brush your teeth afterward.
6. Be Careful When Removing the Aligners
When removing your Invisalign aligners, it is important to be careful. Pulling or tugging too hard on the aligners can cause them to become distorted or damaged. To ensure that your aligners remain in good condition, it is best to use the removal tool provided with the aligners. This will make it easier to remove the aligners without causing any damage.
7. Store the Aligners Properly When Not in Use
When not in use, it is important to store your Invisalign aligners properly. This will help ensure they remain in good condition and are not damaged over time. When not used, aligners should be stored in their original case and kept away from heat, moisture, and direct sunlight. Additionally, it is important to keep the aligners away from pets and small children to prevent them from chewing or swallowing them.
8. Visit Your Dentist Regularly
Schedule regular checkups with your dentist, even when things seem fine. This will ensure that no problems would go undetected. If something is wrong with your aligners, schedule an immediate appointment, and don’t wait for it to worsen.
Conclusion
Eating and drinking with Invisalign requires extra care and attention, but it is essential to follow the rules to ensure that the aligners remain effective and your teeth shift properly. By following these rules, you can maximize your Invisalign treatment and achieve the perfect smile you've always wanted.
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