As you are new to Invisalign treatment you may be interested in what foods are safe to eat with Invisalign. Since these clear aligners have to be worn for 20-22 hours in a day it is important to eat the right kind of food to make sure that your treatment is a success and your mouth is healthy.
Best Foods to Eat with Invisalign
While Invisalign aligners should be removed while eating, you still need to maintain a diet that keeps your teeth healthy and your aligners clean. Here are some of the best food choices:
1. Soft Fruits and Vegetables
- Bananas, berries, and melons are great options since they don’t require much chewing.
- Cooked vegetables like carrots, zucchini, and sweet potatoes are easy to eat and won’t cause discomfort if your teeth are shifting.
2. Dairy Products
- Yogurt, cheese, and milk are excellent for dental health as they provide calcium to strengthen your teeth.
- Soft cheeses are particularly good because they don’t require much chewing.
3. Lean Proteins
- Eggs, tofu, fish, and chicken are gentle on teeth and provide essential nutrients.
- Avoid tough meats that require excessive chewing, as they can cause discomfort.
4. Whole Grains
- Soft grains like oatmeal, quinoa, and whole wheat pasta are easy to eat and won’t harm your teeth.
- Avoid sticky grains like white rice that might get trapped in your teeth.
What is Too Bad for Invisalign? Foods to Avoid
While Invisalign aligners are removable, certain foods can still cause issues if they lead to poor oral hygiene or discomfort. Here’s what you should avoid:
1. Sticky and Chewy Foods
- Caramel, chewing gum, and gummy candies can stick to your teeth and be difficult to clean off before putting your aligners back in.
- These foods can also increase the risk of cavities, which can delay your Invisalign treatment.
2. Hard and Crunchy Foods
- Nuts, popcorn, and hard candies can put excessive pressure on your teeth, leading to discomfort and even damage.
- These foods can also break into small pieces that get stuck between your teeth, increasing the risk of cavities.
3. Sugary and Acidic Foods
- Sodas, sports drinks, and citrus fruits can erode enamel and increase the risk of cavities.
- If you consume these, make sure to brush and rinse your mouth before putting your aligners back in.
4. Staining Foods and Drinks
- Coffee, tea, red wine, and dark-colored sauces can stain your teeth and aligners.
- If you consume them, be sure to rinse your mouth or brush your teeth before reinserting your aligners.
Can Invisalign Fix a Bite?
Many people wonder if Invisalign can fix bite issues. The good news is that Invisalign can treat mild to moderate bite problems, including:
- Overbites
- Underbites
- Crossbites
- Open bites
Your Grande Prairie dentist will assess your bite and determine if Invisalign is the right treatment for you. In some cases, additional dental work may be needed to achieve the best results.
Is It Okay to Brush Invisalign with Toothpaste?
Avoid using hot water, as it can warp the plastic and affect the fit of your aligners. It is important to clean your Invisalign aligners both for the health of your mouth and for the longevity of the product, but this does not necessarily mean that you should use regular toothpaste. Many toothpastes are abrasive, which can damage your aligners. Instead, try this your aligners can be cleaned with Invisalign cleaning crystals, or with mild soap and warm water, and then dried with a soft-bristled toothbrush. Avoid using hot water, as it can warp the plastic and cause your aligners not to fit properly.
Why Choose Northern Dental Centre for Invisalign?
Choosing the right foods during Invisalign can enhance your treatment’s comfort and success. If you want Invisalign in Grande Prairie, there is no better choice than Northern Dental Centre. Our professional staff will help you through the entire process and make sure you get the best outcome you can.
Consult with Northern Dental Centre today for a consultation and how you can start your journey to the best smile ever.