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Invisalign® is an orthodontic treatment that transforms smiles over time. This dental device straightens teeth using clear, virtually invisible aligners. Not only can you get the smile you always wanted without traditional braces, but you also have the freedom to eat what you want. However, you should practice the following eating habits if you're going to preserve your aligners and keep your treatment on track.

How Can You Eat With Invisalign?

1. Choose Beverages Carefully

It's acceptable to drink a cup of coffee in the morning with breakfast. However, sipping on this drink throughout the day can be problematic. The tannins in coffee cause colored compounds in the drink to adhere to teeth, but they will also discolor the aligners. Tannins are also in red wine and teas. Water is the best drink to have while wearing clear aligners to prevent stains.

2. Remove the Aligners Before Meals

invisalign

A common misunderstanding about Invisalign is that you can eat while wearing them. Drinking something other than water once in a while with clear braces may be fine, but you shouldn't eat while wearing them. Invisalign plastic is solid and durable, but it isn't strong enough to withstand the force of chewing. Unlike traditional braces, Invisalign is removable, so you should take the aligners out before you eat.

3. Don't Chew Gum

Chewing gum may seem like a good idea while wearing clear braces because they're comfortable to wear. However, the smooth surface of Invisalign plastic doesn't pair well with the sticky texture of chewing gum. Not only will the gum stick to the plastic, but the chewing motion can create friction between your teeth and the aligners, potentially damaging them.

4. Care for Your Teeth

When it's time to eat, remove your aligners and secure them in their accompanying protective case. Before you snap them back into place, be sure to brush and floss your teeth. Invisalign works properly when the plastic trays fit snugly against your teeth, and they apply gentle pressure to shift them into the desired position. Unless you practice good oral hygiene before inserting the clear braces, food particles and bacteria could become trapped and lead to tooth decay. 

 

If you're ready to improve your smile, turn to Patrick T. Hunter, DDS in Dayton, OH. This dentist has over 14 years of experience helping patients throughout the area maintain their oral health. Dr. Hunter uses the latest dental technology and years of industry expertise to provide various general and cosmetic dentistry services, including Invisalign. Call (937) 890-8957 to schedule an appointment, or visit him online to learn more about his services.

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