If you’re on your Invisalign journey to a straighter, healthier smile, it's natural to have questions about how to adjust your everyday habits. One of the most common questions is, “Can you eat with Invisalign on?”Our dentists recommend you should eat while wearing your Invisalign aligners, because chewing accelerates tooth movement.
If you want to learn more about the advantages of invisalign, don’t hesitate to reach out to our staff at Dentistes REMA to learn more.
What is Invisalign?
Invisalign is a modern alternative to traditional braces that uses a series of clear, removable aligners made from a flexible thermoplastic material called SmartTrack. These aligners are custom-designed to straighten your teeth gradually, offering an effective yet discreet orthodontic solution.
Unlike metal braces, Invisalign doesn’t rely on brackets or wires, making it an enticing option for those who want a comfortable and more visually subtle treatment.
How Does Invisalign Work?
Your Invisalign treatment involves a customized plan developed by your dentist. You’ll be wearing a series of aligners designed to gradually shift your teeth over time. Each aligner is slightly different, and applies pressure to your teeth to move them into alignment. You'll typically wear each set for 1 to 2 weeks before switching to the next in the series.
To achieve the best results, you must wear your Invisalign aligners for 22 to 24 hours per day. This schedule allows adequate time for eating, brushing, and cleaning while ensuring the aligners guide your teeth into their new positions.
What Issues Can Invisalign Correct?
Invisalign can address a range of orthodontic issues, including:
- Crowded teeth
- Overbites
- Underbites
- Crossbites
- Gaps between teeth
However, every smile is unique, and your dentist will assess your specific needs to confirm if Invisalign is the right solution for you. Regular checkups throughout your treatment will help ensure you’re on track and allow for any adjustments.
What to Know About Eating with Invisalign Aligners In
Eating with Invisalign aligners may seem unconventional, but it can actually help accelerate tooth movement. The gentle chewing pressure stimulates blood flow around the teeth and helps the aligners exert continuous, consistent force, potentially speeding up the alignment process.
Eating with aligners also minimizes the time they are out of your mouth, ensuring you meet the recommended wear time for optimal results.
When Should You Remove Your Aligners?
The only times you should remove Invisalign aligners are when you’re:
- Eating or drinking foods that cause staining, including tomato sauce, beets, ketchup, chili sauce, or spaghetti sauce
- Brushing or flossing your teeth
- Cleaning your aligners
We recommend storing your aligners in their protective case when you’re not wearing them to reduce the risk of losing or damaging them.
Tips for Caring for Your Invisalign
Taking good care of your aligners is important for achieving your desired results and keeping your mouth healthy. Here are a few tips to help your treatment stays on track:
Maintain Good Oral Hygiene
After eating, brush and floss your teeth before putting your aligners back in. Food particles trapped in your teeth can lead to bad breath, plaque buildup, and cavities. If brushing isn’t an option, at least rinse your mouth with water or mouthwash to clear away debris.
Clean Your Aligners Daily
To keep your aligners clean and free from bacteria:
- Rinse them thoroughly with cool water whenever you remove them.
- Use a soft toothbrush and clear, unscented antibacterial soap to gently scrub away residue.
- For deeper cleaning, use a soaking solution designed for aligners, such as Invisalign Cleaning Crystals or other dentist-approved options.
Remember, avoid using hot water to clean your aligners, as it can warp the thermoplastic material.
Monitor Your Wear Time
Wearing your Invisalign aligners for the daily recommended time is important for staying on schedule with your treatment. Since you're removing them to eat, snack, or drink anything other than water, be mindful of the time and limit how long your aligners remain out of your mouth
Invest in Extra Storage Cases
Having multiple storage cases can make life easier when you’re on the go. Keep a case in your purse, your car, or at your desk to ensure your aligners stay safe and clean wherever you are.
Start Your Journey with a Confident Smile
When used as directed, Invisalign offers a convenient and effective way to achieve a straighter smile without anyone even noticing you’re wearing aligners. However, to get the most out of your treatment, it's recommended to follow your dentist’s guidelines and take extra steps to care for your aligners.
If you’re considering Invisalign or have questions about whether it’s the right choice for your smile, book an appointment with our team at Dentistes REMA to discuss your options.