Choosing the right beverages while undergoing Invisalign treatment is important to ensure the effectiveness and integrity of your aligners.
Invisalign aligners are designed to be virtually invisible, allowing you to straighten your teeth without the appearance of traditional braces.
However, what you drink can affect the condition of your aligners.
In this guide, we'll explore the best practices for staying hydrated and enjoying your favorite drinks without compromising your Invisalign journey.
Understanding Invisalign and Drinking Habits
Invisalign clear aligners are made from a clear thermoplastic material that is molded to fit snugly over your teeth. They are an innovative solution for orthodontic treatment, allowing for a more aesthetic and comfortable experience.
But, like any dental appliance, they come with specific instructions. Understanding the relationship between your drinking habits and your Invisalign treatment will help you achieve the smile you desire.
Drinks to Avoid with Invisalign
When wearing Invisalign aligners, you must be mindful of the drinks you consume. Certain beverages can negatively affect your aligners and oral health. Let's look at what to avoid to keep your smile journey on the right path.
Hot Beverages and Invisalign
Drinks like hot coffee, hot tea, and even hot water can cause your Invisalign aligners to warp and lose their shape, compromising their fit and effectiveness. The heat can make the thermoplastic material pliable, leading to a poor fit and potentially extending your treatment time.
If you can't resist your hot drink, remove your aligners and enjoy your beverage. Follow up by cleaning your teeth and the aligners before popping them back in.
Keeping your aligner accessories on hand is helpful. The Pultool clear aligner remover is a safe and sanitary way to remove your aligners. To put your aligners back in, try Movemints, a tasty mint sweetened with xylitol. This refreshing mint has a patented shape that fits perfectly between your aligners and seats them properly by gently biting down.
Sugary and Acidic Drinks
Sugary and acidic drinks, such as soda, fruit juices, and energy drinks, are a no-go when wearing Invisalign. They can lead to tooth decay and gum disease and create a sticky film that can trap bacteria between your aligners and teeth.
To protect your smile, it's best to avoid sugary drinks during your orthodontic treatment or remove your aligners prior to drinking and brush before replacing them.
For cleaning your aligners on the go, use Smilesaver™ aligner cleaner spray. In just 60 seconds, your aligners will be clean, refreshed, and ready to wear!
Safe Drinks to Enjoy with Invisalign
While some drinks can jeopardize your Invisalign treatment, there are safe options that you can enjoy without worry. Let's explore the beverages that are Invisalign-friendly.
Water and Invisalign
Distilled or sparkling water is the best choice for staying hydrated without affecting your Invisalign aligners. Drinking with aligners is safe and helps rinse food particles and bacteria. Also, drinking plenty of water also combats dry mouth, which can be a side effect of wearing aligners.
Using a Straw for Other Beverages
If you find yourself craving something other than water, it is best to remove your aligners. A straw allows the liquid to bypass your aligners, reducing the risk of staining and minimizing contact with sugary or acidic contents.
However, you'll want to ask your orthodontist about using a straw. Also, even with a straw, it's best to stick to light-colored or clear drinks and to clean your aligners and teeth as soon as possible after indulging in your favorite beverage.
Tips for Drinking Coffee and Tea with Invisalign
If you're a coffee or tea lover, don't worry—you can still enjoy your favorite hot beverage during the day. The key is to remove your aligners for a short time while you drink. Aim for no more than 15-30 minutes. "Time off" adds up, and you want to minimize any disruption to your treatment schedule.
Maintaining Oral Hygiene After Drinking
After enjoying your coffee or tea, it's crucial to maintain good oral hygiene. Before reinserting your aligners, take a moment to brush and floss your teeth thoroughly. This step ensures that lingering coffee residue or stains don't get trapped against your teeth, which could lead to tooth decay or unsightly discoloration.
Additionally, rinse your aligners with cool water—never hot—to maintain their clear appearance. It's a small adjustment to your routine that allows you to indulge responsibly.
Invisalign Drinking FAQ
Can I drink alcohol with Invisalign?
Yes, drinking alcohol with Invisalign is okay, but there are some guidelines to follow. Stick with clear alcoholic beverages like white wine or vodka and soda to avoid staining your aligners, and use a straw when possible. If you choose to indulge in a drink that may stain, such as red wine or beer, it's best to remove your aligners first.
How do I clean my aligners after drinking?
Cleaning your aligners after drinking is simple. First, rinse them under cool water to remove any immediate residue. For a deeper clean, brush them gently with a soft toothbrush and orthodontist-approved toothpaste. Soak them in Invisalign cleaning solution for thorough disinfection for 15-30 minutes. Rinse well before reinserting.
What happens if I accidentally drink with my aligners on?
If you accidentally drink with your aligners in, don't panic. Remove them and rinse under cool water. Clean the aligners and your teeth promptly to avoid staining or damage. Contact your orthodontist if you notice any warping.
