Invisalign is very popular nowadays because it is a great alternative to traditional braces. It’s a clear aligner that helps straighten teeth. As good as Invisalign may sound, there are certain things you need to be mindful of doing to ensure the best results.
Foods and Drinks to Avoid
If you remove your aligners before eating, you don’t have to eliminate any foods from your diet. However, some foods can interfere with Invisalign treatment if you eat them too often. What are they?
Sticky and Chewy Foods
Sticky and chewy foods can get stuck between your trays and on the edges of your trays. Whenever they are not properly cleaned, they can also get caught in your trays, making them more difficult to remove. Sticky and chewy foods include gum, caramel, honey, and jellies.
Crunchy or Hard Foods
Crunchy foods, like corn on the cob, peanuts, and ice, can break or crack your aligners. You also risk cracking or breaking your aligners whenever you grind your teeth.
Drinks with Tannins
Tannins and acids are common ingredients in tea, coffee, and wine. While most of them will not cause any damage, you must avoid them if your teeth get stained.
It is also recommended that you avoid any red wine that is more than 20% alcohol. Remember, too much of anything is never good.
Tomato-Based Sauces
Excessive drinking and eating of tomato-based foods and sauces, as well as any high-acidic food or drink, can cause erosion of your dental materials. This will eventually wear them down, and they will not straighten your teeth.
Acidic Foods and Drinks
Acidic foods and drinks, like lemon juice, vinegar, and orange juice, can also damage your aligners. They can also cause erosion of your dental materials.
When you need to eat or drink something that contains acid, make sure you brush your teeth afterward. Rinse your mouth several times to remove the traces of acid. You should also use a neutralizing solution four times a day.
How to Maintain Your Invisalign
Follow these tips to help make your Invisalign treatment a success:
- Brush your teeth as recommended.
- Wear your aligners as your dentist advises. This will help your teeth maintain their alignment. Ideally, you should wear them 20 hours a day. If you are not wearing them, make sure you are brushing your teeth.
- Keep your aligners clean.
- Always remove your aligners before eating and drinking.
- Clean your aligners using clear aligner cleaning tablets or a mild soap, then rinse thoroughly.
- Store your aligners in their carrying case.
- Clean your case using mild soap and water, then rinse.
When traveling, never put your aligners in your checked luggage. This can cause them to be damaged or lost.
Minor Damage
What if your aligners get damaged? If you notice minor damage, such as the aligner getting discolored or food sticking on your aligners, you can easily clean them using clear aligner cleaning tablets.
If you can’t see any damage, but you still suspect that something may be wrong, you can visit your dentist. They will check if your aligners are intact and if they need to be replaced.
Have Better-Looking Teeth
Invisalign is a great alternative to traditional braces. As long as you wear your aligners as prescribed and avoid the foods that can damage them, you will have a successful treatment.
Are you looking for dentists in Framingham, MA? Comfort Dental of Framingham is a trusted family dentist. We also provide cosmetic dental care. Book an appointment with us.
