Starting your journey to a straighter smile is exciting! You may have questions about how your daily habits will change. If you have visited a dental clinic in Calgary, you know that clear aligners are much easier to live with than metal braces.
One of the best parts is that you can still eat your favourite foods. By working with a dentist near you, you can make a plan that fits your life and keeps your teeth moving in the right direction.
The Main Rule: Take Them Out to Eat
The most important thing to remember is always to take your aligners out before you eat anything. The aligners are made of special plastic that isn’t meant for chewing.
- Don’t Break Them: Chewing food can crack or bend the plastic, which means they won’t fit right.
- Keep Them Clear: Food and colourful sauces can stain the trays, making them look yellow or dirty.
- Avoid Cavities: If you eat with them in, food gets trapped against your teeth, which can cause decay.
Many people searching for invisalign near you often ask, “How does Invisalign work if you keep taking them out?” It works by gently pushing on your teeth over time. As long as you wear them for 22 hours a day, those short breaks for meals are perfectly fine.
What Can You Drink with Aligners In?
When it comes to drinks, the rules are simple: plain, cool water is the only thing you should drink while wearing your trays. Everything else requires a quick break.
- No Hot Drinks: Very hot coffee or tea can actually melt or warp the plastic.
- Watch the Sugar: Juice and soda contain sugar that can get stuck under the tray and sit on your teeth.
- Avoid Stains: Dark drinks like red wine or black coffee can quickly stain clear plastic.
If you do drink something else, make sure to rinse your mouth and your trays with water before putting them back in.
Will It Hurt to Eat?
A common question is, “Does Invisalign hurt when it’s time for a meal? For most people, the answer is no. However, your teeth might feel a little “tender” or sensitive when you start a new set of trays.
- Start with Soft Foods: For the first day or two of a new tray, try eating things like eggs, pasta, or smoothies.
- Cut Up Hard Foods: If your teeth feel sensitive, cutting your food into smaller bites can help.
- It Gets Better: Any soreness usually goes away in a day or two as your mouth gets used to the new tray.
Cleaning Up After Your Meal
To keep your breath fresh and your teeth healthy, you need to clean your mouth before putting your trays back on. Putting trays over “dirty” teeth is an easy way to get a cavity.
| What to Do | Why It’s Important | Helpful Tip |
| Take Out Trays | Stops them from breaking. | Always put them in your case, never a napkin! |
| Brush Your Teeth | Cleans away food and sugar. | Keep a travel toothbrush in your bag. |
| Rinse the Trays | Washes off spit and germs. | Use cool or lukewarm water. |
| Check the Clock | Makes sure you wear them enough. | Try to finish your meal in about 30 minutes. |
Tips for Eating Out with Friends
Eating at a restaurant or a party is easy if you are prepared. You don’t have to let your aligners stop your social life.
- Bring a Kit: Carry a small pouch with your case, a toothbrush, and some floss.
- Be Sneaky: If you don’t want to take your trays out at the table, head to the restroom for a second.
- Rinse if Needed: If you can’t brush right away, swish water around your mouth thoroughly before putting your trays back in.
- Don’t Snack All Day: It’s better to eat a full meal all at once so you can keep your trays in for the rest of the day.
A Clear Path to a Great Smile
Using Invisalign is a simple change that yields great results. By following these easy tips for eating and drinking, you keep your teeth healthy and your treatment on track.
The best part about these aligners is that they fit into your life without much trouble. Taking a few minutes to care for your teeth today will make your new smile happen even faster!
At Totally Orthodontics, we want your journey to be as easy as possible. We are always here to answer your questions and help you out. Give us a call today.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I chew gum while wearing my aligners?
No, gum is very sticky and will ruin your trays. If you want to chew gum, do it during your meal breaks.
What if I accidentally drink coffee with them in?
Take them out as soon as you can, rinse them well, and brush your teeth to stop any staining.
Do I have to brush after every single snack?
Yes, it’s best to brush every time. If you can’t, at least rinse your mouth very well with water.
Can I use hot water to clean my trays?
No! Hot water can ruin the shape of the plastic. Always use cool or lukewarm water.
