Written by Well, this is one of the most asked questions by orthodontic candidates coming for clear aligner treatment! So today, we will be clarifying all the doubts that keep peeping into your mind (if you fall in the same list).
This blog walks you through some Invisalign-friendly drinks, while especially emphasising on the correct ways to having those. This will help preserve a lifetime of dazzling, straight smiles!
Having beverages with clear aligners: Essentials to know
It is very normal to ask the Invisalign treatment provider about what drinks or beverages are allowed during the treatment course. And especially when, everyone has their own specific favourites – such as coffee.
Unlike braces, Invisalign does not put any restrictions on food habits, including drinks. So, there is no need to feel sad or bid goodbye to your favourite items – don’t sob dear!
Jokes apart – the main cause of wearing aligners is to straighten the teeth. But, managing overall dental health and keeping the aligners hygienic must not be forgotten.
Below is a list of common drinks and some effective tips on aftercare that can promote your dental health, while keeping your transparent braces safe. Read on.
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Coffee
Being the most-sought morning energiser, coffee is an irreplaceable choice for billions over the globe. It helps start the day with a fresh burst of energy that continues throughout!
If coffee is your favourite beverage, you can continue having it during your Invisalign treatment. But, just a thing to keep in mind – keep off the aligners before sipping onto it.
See, coffee will not necessarily affect your treatment outcomes. However, the caffeine present in it can potentially stain your Invisalign aligners. Also, the mouth acids can combine with the sugary stains, promoting bacterial build-up over time.
Once you are done with having coffee, brush your teeth properly or rinse the mouth well (before you pop the aligners back). And if possible, cut back on that extra cream and sugars into the coffee – your teeth will thank you later!
Also, it is important for you to remember that wearing the aligners for at least 22 hours, daily gets you the optimal results.
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Tea
Similar to coffee, tea can also potentially contribute to staining your beautiful, transparent aligners. Just remember to follow the same procedure as above; if you are a die-hard fan of tea and cannot live without it! Swish plain water in your mouth after finishing your ‘cup of tea’ and you are good to put the aligners back.
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Sweetened drinks
Yes, you can have sugary beverages during your Invisalign course, but, we will recommend not to overindulge into them. They are generally not dental-friendly and can make way for harmful bacteria to invade your teeth. The concept equally applies to those not undergoing Invisalign treatment.
Common beverages like carbonated drinks, energy boosters, and canned fruit juices contain enormous quantities of sugars. When you consume them in excess, the sugars and acids can get trapped between your teeth and aligner surface, initiating the dental decay process.
If you are currently on Invisalign treatment, we will ask you to limit the consumption of sugary drinks and remove the aligners before enjoying them. And do not forget to brush and rinse the mouth thoroughly afterwards.
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Fruit juice
Whether freshly extracted or the packaged ones, fruit juices are acidic. Thus, to be safe – it is better to have them in limits or during occasional purposes. Also, ensure to stick only to the less acidic fruit juices, such as, apple juice, pear juice, peach juice, etc. And, as always, keep down your aligners to its special case while drinking and rinse the mouth once finished.
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Lemonade
Lemon juice contains organic acids that can result in thinning of the dental enamel. The key is to have in moderation along with maintaining effective aftercare steps. Do not add too much of sugar for taste enhancement as that will lead to more harm. Rinse the mouth with plain water after you are done with refreshing yourself.
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Milk
Contrary to most other drinks, milk does not contain acids. However, some sugars are present in it and so; while enjoying a glass of fresh milk; you must ensure none of them stick to your teeth or the aligner surface. Take out the clear braces and clean your mouth afterwards before putting them back.
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Water
You do not need to remove your aligners for drinking water! And we recommend you hydrate your body sufficiently during Invisalign treatment. Water is the best natural cleanser that not only keeps your teeth and gums healthy, but also aids in maintaining aligner hygiene.
Just a little reminder – do have plain water (at a normal temperature). Avoid hot water for it can affect the plastic material, thus disrupting its functionality. And if you have dental sensitivity, both hot and cold water must be avoided.
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Sparkling water
Yes, you can consume sparkling water while undergoing your Invisalign treatment, but we suggest that you choose regular water most of the time. Sparkling water, seltzer and soda water, etc. have a mild acidity, and frequent consumption may begin to erode your enamel. Therefore, similar to sweetened beverages, we suggest that you consume sparkling water sparingly. And, naturally, take out your Invisalign aligners prior to having a drink!
Conclusion
Summarising all the above points that we learnt so far; you will not need to alter your eating or drinking habits significantly during your Invisalign treatment. Invisalign clear aligners are crafted with remarkable precision, ensuring that they fit your teeth and mouth flawlessly, while also allowing for easy insertion and removal.
The best way to enhance your Invisalign treatment is maintaining proper oral care hygiene and removing the aligners while drinking. Then, you can enjoy whatever you like. For better and professional guidance on what beverages to consume, contact any of your locally available Invisalign treatment providers. They can help cater to your specific dental requirements and suggest additional measures for a straighter, sparkling smile that lasts lifelong!
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