Things That Invisalign Wearers Should Avoid

Though braces are the tried and true way to achieve a straight smile, Invisalign® is ideal for adults and teens who wish to undergo treatment in a discreet and comfortable manner. Invisalign® revolutionized the modern dental industry as it provides a way for patients to align the teeth without having to wear the bulky, uncomfortable wire brackets characteristic of braces. However, for the system to be effective, there are a few things — mostly foods — patients should avoid.

Things to avoid while undergoing Invisalign® treatment

Dental professionals always advise patients of the pros and cons of undergoing certain treatments. Those lists are usually made up of activities and foods patients can and cannot enjoy for the duration of treatment. Because Invisalign® is removeable, and because it is soft and flexible, there are not very many activities wearers should avoid. The only activity most professionals recommend against is playing with the aligners. Other than that, wearers should be able to partake in all their favorites sports, hobbies and activities without worry. Unfortunately, the list of foods to avoid is much longer than the list of activities.

Sticky, chewy foods

Gum and other sticky foods are huge no-nos for Invisalign® wearers. Gum has the tendency to remain on the surface after eating. Failure to brush before putting the trays back on can lead to an increased risk of plaque or tarter build up, which can lead to an increased risk of tooth decay. The best way to avoid these complications is to avoid sticky foods altogether for the duration of treatment.

Hard foods and candies

The goal of Invisalign® is to push the teeth into alignment. Hard foods such as lollipops, jawbreakers, ice and hard breads can have the exact opposite effect. Moreover, hard foods can chip or break the teeth, thereby resulting in the need for additional dental work. For these reasons, patients should avoid hard foods during treatment and only consume them in moderation post treatment. Of course, there are some "hard foods," such as chips and pretzels, that break easily under pressure.

Liquids that stain

When people choose to undergo Invisalign® treatment, it is because they want a straighter and more beautiful smile. Staining liquids such as tea, coffee and wine can dye the enamel and turn the teeth unappealing shades of yellow or tan.

Appearances aside, staining liquids can be damaging to both the teeth and trays. The acid in wine and citrusy drinks, such as orange juice, have the power to erode tooth enamel, which can lead to decay. Hot drinks such as coffee and tea can distort the trays and render them ineffective. Though the trays are designed to work for the patient, the patient should be mindful of how to care for the trays.

Conclusion

Invisalign® is one of the best treatment options for aligning the teeth and helping patients achieve a bright, straight smile. However, to ensure the most effective treatment, and to prevent unnecessary damage to the teeth or trays, patients should be mindful of the foods and activities they enjoy.

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