Wearing clear aligners may seem easy, but getting used to eating with them can be challenging. Many Invisalign users are unsure if their go-to snacks or beverages might hurt their trays.
This stress can lead to frustration, particularly while attempting to follow the treatment process properly. We get it. You’re doing your best to achieve a straighter smile, but you don’t need to play guessing games about what is safe to eat.
If you’re having Invisalign in Lethbridge, this guide will give you an idea of what you can and cannot eat while undergoing treatment.
Why Invisalign Trays Need Special Care
Invisalign aligners are made of strong, medical-grade plastic. But they’re not invincible. Eating with the trays in can lead to staining, cracking, or warping. That’s why you’re told to remove them before meals. Still, what you eat between wearing them matters, too.
Food particles left on your teeth or stuck to your aligners can lead to tooth decay or even impact how well your aligners fit. This is why a Lethbridge dentist recommends brushing and flossing after every meal before reinserting trays.
Let’s take a closer look at the do’s and don’ts when it comes to food.
What Are the Foods You Can Eat with Invisalign Trays?
You should always remove your Invisalign trays before eating. That said, there are still some gentle food options that are safe to consume if you must eat with trays in (such as during emergencies). These include:
- Soft foods like plain yogurt or smoothies
- Cold water (helps soothe teeth if they’re sore)
- Ice chips (but do not chew them)
Still, even these should be approached with caution. The safest choice is to remove the trays entirely before eating. Once you’ve eaten, rinse your mouth and clean the trays before putting them back in.
If you’re wondering about foods you can eat with Invisalign trays, remember: the cleaner and softer, the better, but only in rare cases. Otherwise, always remove the trays to avoid damaging them.
Which Foods Damage Invisalign Trays?
Certain foods can seriously damage your aligners or teeth if consumed without removing trays. Here are examples of foods that damage Invisalign trays:
- Sticky foods like gum, caramel, or taffy
- Hard foods like nuts, popcorn, or crusty bread
- Hot foods and beverages that can warp the trays
- Dark-colored sauces and spices (like curry or soy sauce) that can stain plastic
These foods not only affect the trays but may also trap bacteria against your teeth. Eating these with aligners in place can compromise your treatment and oral health.
Can You Drink Coffee with Invisalign?
If you’re a coffee drinker, you may be asking, Can you drink coffee with Invisalign? The short answer is no. Drinking coffee while wearing aligners is a common mistake.
Here’s why:
- Coffee is hot and can warp the plastic.
- It’s also dark, which stains the clear trays.
- It contains sugar or cream, which can lead to plaque buildup if trapped under the trays.
The best advice is to remove your aligners before drinking coffee, rinse your mouth afterward, and clean the trays before putting them back in.
How to Eat Comfortably with Invisalign
Adjusting your eating habits might feel awkward at first, but it becomes easier over time. Knowing how to eat comfortably with Invisalign is essential to sticking with your treatment.
Here are some practical tips:
- Plan your meals to reduce the number of times you remove and insert trays.
- Carry a travel toothbrush, toothpaste, and floss with you to clean your mouth on the go.
- Rinse aligners with lukewarm water (never hot!) to remove debris after meals.
- Avoid snacking frequently to keep trays in for 20–22 hours a day.
Also, consider switching to softer foods during the first few days of a new tray set, as your teeth may feel sore.
What About Snacks and Treats?
Snacking is one of the biggest changes Invisalign users must adjust to. Every time you eat, even a quick snack, you should remove your trays and clean your teeth afterward.
Foods to avoid snacking on include:
- Candy (especially sticky or hard varieties)
- Potato chips (they leave debris between teeth)
- Fruit juices or soft drinks (high in sugar and acid)
If you want a quick bite, go for:
- Sliced fruits like apples or bananas (after removing trays)
- Cheese cubes (they’re tooth-friendly)
- Water (always safe)
Remember, even if a food seems harmless, it’s best to play it safe by keeping your trays out while eating.
Final Tips for Managing Invisalign and Diet
Here’s a quick list of habits that will keep your aligners clean and your treatment on track:
- Remove trays before eating anything, no matter how small.
- Rinse trays before reinserting them.
- Brush and floss after every meal or snack.
- Avoid hot or colored drinks with trays in.
- Stick to water when wearing aligners.
Following these steps will protect your trays and improve your results.
The Bottom Line
Navigating your diet with Invisalign takes a little effort, but it’s worth it for a straighter, healthier smile. Now you know which foods are safe, which ones to avoid, and how to keep your aligners in great shape.
Eat Smart, Smile Better
If you have questions about your Invisalign journey or want personalized advice, reach out today to schedule your consultation with Absolute Dental.