One of the biggest advantages of choosing Invisalign® to straighten the teeth is the ability to continue eating foods that are typically prohibited during a traditional braces treatment. Still, achieving success from an Invisalign® treatment requires a lot of dedication and consistency from the patient. If you are currently using Invisalign®, or you are planning to begin Invisalign® in the future, here are some tips for eating and drinking during your treatment.
1. Remove Your Aligners
Your aligners need to be removed any time you are eating. If you eat with your aligners in, they are at risk of becoming stained, cracked, or otherwise damaged. If this happens, your progress will stop and may even be set back. So never eat with your Invisalign® aligners in!
2. Plan Your Eating
You need to wear your Invisalign® aligners for approximately 22 hours a day for best results. Each time you remove your aligners to eat, you are taking away time for your teeth to improve. Try planning your meals out so you don’t have your aligners removed for any more time than is absolutely necessary. You should also reduce snacking, when possible – every minute of Invisalign® use counts!
3. No Gum
Just like chewing on food, chewing gum with your aligners can cause damage to your teeth as they rub against your aligners and each other. Your aligners can also be damaged from chewing gum.
4. Drink More Water
Drinks like coffee and soda can stain your Invisalign® aligners. It may also allow sugar to get trapped in your aligners, putting you at risk of cavities and other hygienic issues. Only drink water while you have your Invisalign® aligners in!
5. Brush Like Normal
Oral hygiene is more important than ever during your Invisalign® treatment. Due to the snug fit of the aligners, they can trap food and other debris in the teeth for long periods of time. In addition to brushing and flossing like normal, try to brush or at least rinse the mouth between meals.
Want to learn more about Invisalign®? Contact us today to learn about this and other orthodontic services in the Virginia Beach area.
