Can You Eat with Invisalign? What You Need to Know
If you have recently started wearing Invisalign aligners, you may be wondering how to handle eating with these clear plastic trays in your mouth. Invisalign aligners are designed to gradually shift your teeth into place over time, but they can also make eating certain foods more challenging. In this article, we will explore what you need to know about eating with Invisalign, including healthy food options, foods to avoid, and tips from orthodontic experts.
Eating Soft Foods with Invisalign: What You Need to Know
One of the easiest ways to enjoy meals while wearing Invisalign aligners is to eat soft, easy-to-chew foods. Soft foods will not damage or dislodge the aligners, making them a safe option for Invisalign wearers. Some healthy soft food options include mashed potatoes, soups, smoothies, yogurt, and scrambled eggs. However, it’s important to still chew slowly and carefully to avoid damaging the aligners or your teeth.
Eating Habits to Avoid with Invisalign Aligners
While soft foods are a great option for Invisalign wearers, there are certain eating habits that should be avoided. Hard, crunchy, sticky, or sugary foods can damage or dislodge the aligners, leading to longer treatment times or additional expenses. Some examples of foods to avoid include popcorn, nuts, ice, gum, and hard candy. If you want to enjoy these foods, it’s best to remove your aligners first or find alternatives that are safer for your teeth.
How to Clean Your Invisalign Aligners After Eating
Cleaning your Invisalign aligners is crucial for maintaining their effectiveness and your oral health. After eating or drinking anything other than water, it’s best to remove your aligners and rinse them under running water. You can also use gentle toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush to clean the aligners, making sure to avoid rigorous or abrasive brushing. Avoid using hot water or harsh chemicals, as these can damage or discolor the aligners. It’s important to keep your aligners in a case when you are not wearing them to prevent loss or accidental damage.
Healthy Snack Options for Invisalign Wearers
If you want to snack while wearing Invisalign aligners, there are plenty of healthy options that won’t damage your aligners or teeth. Some examples of safe and tasty snacks include apple slices, baby carrots, hummus, string cheese, and almonds. Just be sure to cut up any hard fruits or vegetables into small, bite-sized pieces to avoid damaging the aligners.
Here is a sample snack menu for a day:
- Breakfast: Greek yogurt with berries
- Morning Snack: Sliced cucumber with hummus
- Lunch: Chicken salad with avocado on a soft wrap
- Afternoon Snack: Almonds with a piece of dark chocolate
- Dinner: Salmon with steamed broccoli and quinoa
- Evening Snack: Sliced pear with almond butter
What Foods to Avoid with Invisalign for the Best Results
While there are many foods that can be enjoyed while wearing Invisalign, there are some that should be avoided entirely for the best results. Hard candies, gum, and chewy candies can break or damage the aligners, while acidic drinks like soda and juice can erode the enamel on your teeth. If you can’t resist these treats, it’s best to remove your aligners first or use a straw to minimize contact with your teeth.
Eating with Invisalign: Tips and Tricks from Orthodontic Experts
We asked orthodontic experts to share their tips and tricks for eating with Invisalign aligners:
- Eat slowly and chew carefully to avoid damaging the aligners or your teeth
- Use a straw when drinking anything other than water
- Brush your teeth after every meal and snack to keep your aligners and teeth clean
- Keep a travel toothbrush and toothpaste in your purse or bag for meals on-the-go
Conclusion
Invisalign aligners can make eating a bit more challenging, but there are plenty of safe and healthy options to choose from. By eating soft foods, avoiding harmful eating habits, cleaning your aligners regularly, and seeking advice from orthodontic experts, you can achieve the best results with your Invisalign treatment. With a little extra effort and attention, you can enjoy healthy, delicious meals without compromising your smile.
