One of the perks of choosing Invisalign® trays for tooth alignment is that there is no need for major dietary changes during treatment. Patients can still enjoy some of their favorite foods and treats without worrying about damaging brackets and wires. There is also no risk of food particles becoming lodged under or between appliances where they cannot be removed. However, some food and beverage choices are not wise for teens, especially when using Invisalign® products.
It is important to note that patients should never drink anything other than plain water when wearing Invisalign® trays. However, choosing certain beverages, even when not wearing aligner trays, can still lead to unwanted issues.
Sodas are a popular drink among teens, but their high sugar and acid content can be problematic. Sugary and acidic drinks can break down tooth enamel and lead to tooth decay when consumed in excess. While sodas do not necessarily have to be completely off-limits for your teen during Invisalign® treatment, they should be limited to rare occasions. Teens should remove trays before consuming a soda and should brush and rinse thoroughly before replacing them.
Unsweetened coffee is not harmful to dental health, but it can be one of the worst offenders when it comes to tooth stains and discolorations. Coffee can also stain Invisalign® trays if it is consumed while wearing them or if a teen fails to brush properly after drinking it. Sweetened coffee can increase the risks of tooth decay. The high amount of caffeine can also cause some unwanted side effects, so it should be enjoyed in moderation.
Drinks with food dyes, such as sports drinks and artificial juices, are a double hitter when it comes to poor beverage choices. These drinks are often full of sugar and contain colors that can stain teeth and Invisalign® trays. These should be enjoyed sparingly.
While the material used to create Invisalign® trays is very durable, it is still possible to damage it. Hot liquids can warp the trays, resulting in a poor fit or unwanted interference with treatment. Do not drink hot drinks when wearing Invisalign® trays. In addition, use only lukewarm water when rinsing, cleaning, or soaking them. Even just a quick rinse with hot water can lead to product damage.
Invisalign® trays should always be removed for eating and drinking, no matter what is being consumed. The only exception is when drinking plain water. To prevent staining particles and bacteria from becoming trapped on teeth inside of the trays, teens should brush their teeth carefully before replacing aligners.
While there are no rules for dietary changes with Invisalign®, it is wise to avoid certain beverages that can increase the risks for staining and tooth decay. A dentist may offer other recommendations based on a teen's unique dental health situation. Following these recommendations can help improve oral health while leading to a better treatment outcome.
Request an appointment here: https://stellarsmilesinc.com or call Stellar Smiles at (561) 225-2070 for an appointment in our Boca Raton office.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Invisalign in Boca Raton, FL.
Considering Invisalign®? Modern-day dentistry has allowed for the evolution of many types of teeth straightening options. Clear aligners are offered by a number of brands, with Invisalign® being the most popular. However, individuals who are considering teeth straightening may also consider braces, which are known to be the standard method for correcting crooked teeth, crowded…
You may have heard of Invisalign® but perhaps you do not quite understand what makes it stand out from traditional braces. Each straightening tool uses different methods to move teeth into more aesthetically pleasing positions.The goal of traditional braces is to correct crooked teeth and jaw or bite issues. Many dental patients seek this corrective…
Invisalign® aligners can effectively correct many dental alignment issues like crooked, misaligned, or protruding teeth. Invisalign is a popular alternative to metal braces and uses plastic aligner trays to straighten teeth. These clear plastic trays (aligners) are custom-made by a dentist to fit tightly over the teeth and gradually shift crooked teeth into the correct…
Are you considering Invisalign® treatment? Read on to learn about some of the benefits of opting for this teeth-straightening treatment. According to the American Dental Association, teeth straightening is more than just for cosmetic purposes; it may help your overall oral health. While conventional metal braces are still widely used, modern technology has enabled the…
Want to be prepared in case you need denture repair? Understanding your repair choices is a great idea, as the more you know about your repair options, the more likely you will be to make the right choices. There are a few different types of denture repair available. Ready to learn what they are?Thinking you…
Dental bonding is a great way to address oral health and cosmetic issues like damaged enamel and chipped or cracked teeth. Read on to learn more about dental bonding. Dental bonding is minimally invasive and considered safe for patients.Every patient should evaluate all available types of restorative dentistry to address their specific oral health concerns…