My Dentist Told Me to Eat With Invisalign: Is That Okay?
Many Invisalign wearers grapple with the question of eating with their aligners in. Your dentist recommending you eat with your Invisalign might seem counterintuitive, given the common advice to remove them before meals. Let's clarify the nuances of this recommendation and explore the implications.
This article will delve into the complexities of eating with Invisalign, answering common questions and providing crucial guidance to ensure the success of your treatment.
Why Would a Dentist Recommend Eating With Invisalign?
While generally discouraged, there are very specific, limited circumstances where a dentist might suggest briefly eating with your aligners in. This is highly unlikely and usually only applies to very specific situations and foods. It's crucial to understand that this is not a typical recommendation. The overwhelming advice is to remove your aligners before eating.
Your dentist may suggest this in exceptionally rare cases, perhaps involving a minor, quick snack that poses minimal risk to the aligners, and only if they deem the potential risks insignificant. Always clarify the specifics with your dentist. They will assess your individual case and the type of food involved.
What Are the Risks of Eating With Invisalign?
The primary risk of eating with your Invisalign aligners is damage. Hard foods can crack or break the plastic, rendering them ineffective and requiring replacement. Sticky foods can adhere to the aligners, potentially pulling them out of alignment or causing them to warp. Chewing with the aligners in can also place undue pressure on your teeth, affecting their movement and overall treatment outcome.
Further, food particles trapped beneath the aligners can lead to staining, plaque buildup, and even gum irritation. This compromises oral hygiene and can potentially negate the benefits of the treatment.
What Should I Do Before Eating While Wearing Invisalign?
If, exceptionally, your dentist has given you specific instructions to eat with your aligners in, they should also have detailed recommendations about what types of food are acceptable and how to manage the situation to minimize risks. Always follow their explicit guidance.
What Foods Should I Avoid When Wearing Invisalign?
Regardless of your dentist's specific instructions, it's vital to avoid certain foods altogether when wearing Invisalign:
- Hard foods: Nuts, hard candies, ice, popcorn kernels, and anything else that could crack or chip your aligners.
- Sticky foods: Caramel, taffy, gummy candies, chewing gum – these can adhere to the aligners and cause damage or misalignment.
- Foods that stain: Coffee, tea, red wine, and brightly colored foods can stain your aligners and make them difficult to clean.
How Often Should I Clean My Invisalign Aligners?
Thorough cleaning is crucial for successful Invisalign treatment. Clean your aligners every time you remove them to eat, using a soft-bristled toothbrush and a specialized Invisalign cleaning solution or mild soap and water. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners.
Can I Wear Invisalign While Sleeping?
Yes, typically, Invisalign aligners should be worn for 20-22 hours a day, including while sleeping. Removal is only necessary for eating and cleaning.
What Happens If My Invisalign Aligners Break?
If your aligners break or become significantly damaged, contact your orthodontist immediately. They will assess the damage and advise on the necessary course of action, which usually involves getting replacements.
In conclusion, while a dentist might exceptionally suggest eating briefly with your Invisalign aligners in a very limited, specific circumstance, it is strongly recommended to remove them before each meal. The risks of damage, staining, and compromised oral hygiene significantly outweigh any potential benefits. Always prioritize following your dentist’s specific instructions and maintaining excellent oral hygiene throughout your Invisalign treatment.
