Invisalign is an excellent treatment option that is efficient and affordable for anyone with crooked teeth who wants to perfect their smile. Invisalign trays are a discreet option as compared to traditional braces as they are invisible and conform to the shape of your teeth. However, Invisalign requires an impeccable oral hygiene routine. In addition to a good oral care routine, there are some foods to avoid with Invisalign to ensure the integrity of your Invisalign trays and oral health.
Avoiding Certain Foods
Your mouth is filled with harmful bacteria that can be cleaned away by brushing, flossing, using mouthwash, and taking good care of your teeth. However, when using Invisalign, the risk of harmful bacteria impacting your teeth and gums can increase slightly if not managed properly. This is because your teeth are in the Invisalign trays for at least twenty hours each day. While these trays help straighten your teeth, they can be a hotbed for bacteria if you don’t take care of your mouth properly.
Foods to Avoid
The treatment duration for Invisalign in Burbank is fairly short, so you won’t miss these foods for too long. Below you will find the foods you should avoid while using Invisalign.
- Hard Foods and Candy: Things like Jawbreakers, uncooked carrots, and even bread with hard crusts should not be eaten with Invisalign. Hard candies that are meant to only be sucked on should also be avoided as they leave a sugar residue over your entire mouth. This residue can mix with harmful bacteria and cause plaque and gum disease. Instead of candies and hard foods, try eating bananas, grapes, strawberries, and softer vegetables.
- Beverages: Coffee, tea, soda, and wine can stain your Invisalign trays. They can leave a tinted, dirty look on the plastic, which can make your teeth look less than pearly white. Also, hot drinks can warp your trays as well, so drink beverages that are room temperature or below. While these drinks are not advisable while using Invisalign, it’s best to minimize them in general. The acidic nature of the drinks can break down your enamel, leading to gum disease and cavities.
- Sticky Foods and Candy: Gum, jelly beans, caramel, and chewy candies can all pull on aligners and possibly break them down or cause damage. Sticky foods and sweets should be avoided to maintain the integrity of your trays as damage can cause treatment to last longer.
Oral Hygiene and Invisalign
The best time to clean your Invisalign trays is when you are cleaning your own teeth. Oral hygiene is the key to a healthy mouth as it can combat harmful bacteria from impacting your teeth and gums. Brush after each meal and floss at least once a day. Brush with a soft-bristled toothbrush for at least two minutes each time you brush. Use mouthwash with fluoride for extra protection against tooth decay. Clean your trays each time you brush your own teeth as it will help ensure your entire mouth is clean and free from harmful bacteria. Because you will have the trays in your mouth for nearly the whole day, it’s vital to keep up with your oral care routine.
Invisalign Treatment in Burbank, California
If you are looking to perfect your smile and are interested in Invisalign, contact Coastland Dental for an appointment. As a top dentist in Burbank Coastland Dental has numerous patients who have had amazing results with Invisalign. No matter your dental needs, the team at Coastland Dental is experienced and ready to treat your dental issues. Contact Coastland Dental today to set up an appointment!