Eating with Invisalign: What You Can and Can’t Do

The Do's of Eating with Invisalign

• Remove Before Eating: Before indulging in any meal or snack, remove your Invisalign aligners. This practice prevents damage to the aligners and ensures a more comfortable eating experience.


• Stay Hydrated: Water is your ally! Feel free to drink water while wearing Invisalign. This not only keeps you hydrated but also helps maintain proper oral hygiene by rinsing away food particles.


• Mindful Snacking: If you have a habit of snacking between meals, choose wisely. Opt for snacks that are easy to clean from your teeth, reducing the risk of staining or cavities.


• Brush and Floss: Maintaining good oral hygiene is paramount. Brush your teeth after each meal and snack before reinserting your Invisalign aligners. This habit prevents food particles from getting trapped and causing dental issues.


• Soft Foods Are Your Friends: When enjoying a meal, lean towards softer options. Foods like pasta, mashed potatoes, and yogurt are gentle on your aligners and won't compromise their integrity.

The Don'ts of Eating with Invisalign

• No Eating with Aligners: Avoid consuming anything other than water with your Invisalign aligners in place. Eating with them increases the risk of damage and staining, and it's best to keep them protected.


• Avoid Staining Foods: Dark-colored foods and beverages, such as coffee, tea, and berries, can stain your aligners. It's advisable to limit their consumption or ensure you brush your teeth before putting the aligners back in.


• Say No to Gum: Chewing gum with Invisalign is a no-go. Gum can stick to the aligners, making them difficult to clean. Additionally, the constant chewing motion can affect the fit of your aligners.


• Hard and Crunchy Foods: Steer clear of hard and crunchy foods that could potentially damage your Invisalign aligners. This includes items like nuts, popcorn, and hard candies.


• Hot Foods and Beverages: Exposing your aligners to hot temperatures can distort their shape. Remove them before consuming hot foods or beverages to maintain their effectiveness.

Navigating Social Situations

• Inform Your Companions: Let friends and family know about your Invisalign journey. This ensures understanding and support when you need to step aside to remove your aligners before a meal.


• Carry a Travel Case: Always have a travel case on hand for your Invisalign aligners. This portable case keeps your aligners safe and hygienic when not in use.


• Plan Your Meals: If you know you'll be attending an event with heavy snacking, plan accordingly. Enjoy a substantial meal beforehand and remove your aligners to avoid unnecessary exposure to potential staining foods.

Comparing Invisalign to Traditional Braces

Advantages of Invisalign

• Aesthetics: Invisalign aligners are virtually invisible, providing a discreet orthodontic option.


• Removability: The ability to remove Invisalign aligners for eating and oral hygiene simplifies daily life.


• Comfort: Invisalign aligners are smooth and more comfortable than traditional braces.

Considerations for Traditional Braces

• Dietary Restrictions: Traditional braces come with dietary restrictions to prevent damage to wires and brackets.


• Oral Hygiene Challenges: Cleaning around brackets and wires can be more challenging, requiring additional effort.