3 Rules to Recall When Eating and Drinking with Invisalign

Eating and drinking with Invisalign requires extra care and attention to ensure the clear aligners remain clean and undamaged. Here are three essential rules dental specialists will tell you when eating and drinking with Invisalign.

Remove Them

The first rule to remember when eating and drinking with Invisalign is to remove your aligners before doing so. This is because the aligners are not designed to withstand the pressure and force of chewing food, and doing so can damage them. Food and drink can also get trapped in the aligners, leading to bacterial growth and bad breath.

Prior to eating or drinking anything apart from water, remove your aligners and store them in the case. This will protect them from damage and prevent food and drink from getting trapped in them. Brush and floss your teeth before placing your aligners back in to maintain good oral hygiene.

Don't Eat or Drink Anything That Can Stain Your Aligners

Invisalign is made of clear plastic, making them susceptible to staining. To keep your aligners clear and transparent, avoiding eating or drinking anything that can stain them is important. Some common culprits include coffee, tea, red wine, and tomato-based sauces.

If you do consume something that can stain your aligners, it is important to rinse your mouth and aligners with water as soon as possible. You can also use a soft toothbrush to clean your aligners with water or a mild soap gently. Avoid using toothpaste or other abrasive cleaners, as these can scratch your aligners and make them more susceptible to staining.

Drink Plenty of Water to Clean Your Aligners

Hydrating throughout the day is essential to maintaining good oral hygiene when wearing Invisalign aligners. Water helps to flush out food particles and bacteria from your mouth, preventing them from getting trapped in your aligners and causing bad breath or dental problems.

Whenever you remove your aligners to eat or drink, take the opportunity to drink a glass of water. This will help to rinse your mouth and aligners and keep them clean. Dental specialists will also advise you to use a small amount of mouthwash, as this freshens your breath and kills bacteria in your mouth.

In addition to drinking water daily, clean your aligners regularly to prevent bacterial growth and bad breath. You can clean your aligners with a soft toothbrush, water, mild soap, special cleaning crystals, or tablets designed for Invisalign aligners.

Healthy Teeth and Gums = A Healthy Life

Eating and drinking with Invisalign requires extra care and attention to ensure the aligners remain clean and undamaged. Always remove your aligners before ingesting anything other than water, avoid eating or drinking anything that can stain your aligners, and always hydrate to keep your aligners clean. By following these three rules, you can maintain good oral hygiene and keep your Invisalign treatment on track.

Our aim at Dental House of Ann Arbor, Waterford & West Bloomfield is to offer you a comprehensive range of dentistry services, ensuring you see the same dentist every visit. Our priority is understanding your oral health and providing customized services that cater to your needs, thus helping you achieve optimum oral health. We can answer your questions and assist with any insurance or pricing concerns. Feel free to contact us today on our website to make an appointment with Ann Arbor dental specialists!