Invisalign is an effective treatment option for those who want to improve the look of their smile. The treatment has major benefits as it is relatively short, doesn’t require bulky braces, and can drastically improve the look of your teeth. One of the most important factors in the success of the treatment is keeping the aligners on for the required amount of time which is 20 to 22 hours each day. This can prove to be difficult at times when it comes to eating, drinking, and snacking. You may wonder, what’s off-limits and what can you eat with Invisalign? You can eat a wide variety of foods and drinks, but it’s important to follow the necessary requirements to ensure your treatment works.
What Can You Eat With Invisalign?
Most people wonder what foods or drinks they can’t eat with Invisalign. The good news is that nothing is off-limits. However, it’s important that you refrain from consuming anything outside of water with your Invisalign trays in your mouth. It is required that your keep your Invisalign trays in for 20 to 22 hours each day to ensure that they work effectively. With that, you’ll need to plan meals, snacks, and drinks within that time frame.
In addition to eating and drinking within that time period, you will also need to brush your teeth and rinse your trays to ensure your entire mouth is clean after you eat or drink something. Despite nothing being off-limits, sometimes it can be challenging to keep your Invisalign trays in for the required amount of time. However, with diligent planning it is possible and you can easily get into a routine when it comes to meals and snacks.
Tips for Eating and Drinking
Finding the right routine when it comes to meals can be helpful with Invisalign. Below you will find some helpful tips, so you keep your Invisalign trays in for the allotted amount of time each day.
Caffeine Consumption:
If you are the type of person who likes to sip on your morning or afternoon tea or coffee, you may need to speed up the drinking process. Sipping on your morning coffee for an hour or two can impact the amount of time you have for the rest of your meals and snacks. Consider drinking your morning coffee while you eat your breakfast to help save some time.
Schedule Meals and Snacks:
This may be difficult in the beginning, but scheduling your meals and snacks can help keep you on track for hitting the 20 to 22-hour requirement for wearing your Invisalign trays. Set timers for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacks. Build in brush and rinse times right after you eat as it is important to have your teeth and tray clean before you put your tray back in your mouth.
Avoid Gum:
For anyone who likes to freshen their breath throughout the day, avoiding gum altogether is necessary for those with Invisalign. The gum can impact your progress as it can get stuck in your aligners and damage them. You will be brushing your teeth much more often with aligners so your breath will likely be fresh most of the time. However, opt for specialized mints approved for those wearing Invisalign. Talk with your dentist to see what options are compatible with your Invisalign trays.
Invisalign Treatment
If you are unhappy with the look of your smile, invisible braces in Los Angeles may be right for you. The team at Nikaeen Orthodontics have helped countless patients improve their smile with Invisalign treatment. Contact the top orthodontist in Los Angeles today for a consultation!