Invisalign offers a discreet way to straighten your teeth, but maintaining proper oral hygiene is crucial for successful treatment. Knowing what you can and cannot drink is a significant part of that process. This guide will comprehensively address your beverage choices while wearing Invisalign aligners.
What Drinks Are Invisalign-Friendly?
The best drinks to consume with Invisalign are those that won't stain your aligners or damage your teeth. Ideally, stick to water as your primary beverage. It keeps you hydrated, rinses away food particles, and won't affect your aligners.
Here's a breakdown of other acceptable beverages:
- Clear, Unsweetened Drinks: Unsweetened tea (both hot and iced), clear juices (like apple juice, if tolerated by your dentist), and plain sparkling water are generally safe. However, even these can slightly stain your aligners over time. Remember to brush and rinse thoroughly afterward.
- Milk: Milk is a good choice because it's non-staining and beneficial for your teeth.
- Clear Broth: Low-sodium, clear broths can be a hydrating option, especially if you are ill.
What Drinks Should I Avoid with Invisalign?
Certain drinks can seriously hinder your Invisalign treatment. Avoiding these is paramount for maintaining the integrity of your aligners and the health of your teeth.
- Highly Pigmented Drinks: Coffee, tea (especially black or herbal teas with strong coloring), red wine, and soda are notorious for staining Invisalign aligners. The discoloration can be difficult, if not impossible, to remove.
- Acidic Drinks: Highly acidic beverages like orange juice, lemonade, and sports drinks can erode tooth enamel and weaken your aligners over time. The acid can also increase the risk of demineralization (weakening of the tooth enamel).
- Carbonated Drinks: While plain sparkling water is acceptable, sugary or acidic sodas can stain and damage your aligners. The carbonation itself can also weaken the plastic over time.
- Alcoholic Beverages: Alcohol can dehydrate you, potentially leading to dry mouth, which increases the risk of cavities. Dark-colored alcoholic drinks can also stain your aligners.
How Do I Keep My Aligners Clean After Drinking?
Regardless of what you drink, maintaining a good oral hygiene routine is crucial. Follow these steps after consuming any beverage:
- Remove your aligners: Take your aligners out and rinse them thoroughly with cool water. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and Invisalign cleaning crystals or a dedicated Invisalign cleaning solution to remove any residue.
- Brush your teeth: Brush your teeth thoroughly with fluoride toothpaste to remove food particles and plaque.
- Rinse with water or mouthwash: Use water or a fluoride mouthwash to clean your mouth before reinserting your aligners.
- Reinsert your aligners: Once everything is clean and dry, carefully put your aligners back in.
What About Drinking Through a Straw?
Using a straw might reduce the staining and acid exposure, but it doesn't eliminate the risks. The best practice remains limiting the consumption of staining and acidic drinks as much as possible.
Can I Drink Coffee with Invisalign?
While many people enjoy coffee, it's highly recommended to avoid or significantly limit coffee consumption while wearing Invisalign due to its staining properties. If you must have coffee, consider drinking it very sparingly and brushing your teeth and rinsing your aligners immediately afterward.
Will Drinking Certain Drinks Damage My Invisalign Aligners?
Yes, acidic and highly pigmented drinks can damage your Invisalign aligners. Prolonged exposure can lead to discoloration, weakening, and potentially even warping of the plastic.
How Often Should I Clean My Invisalign Aligners?
You should clean your Invisalign aligners every time after you eat or drink anything other than water. This means rinsing them and brushing them with a soft toothbrush, and at least once daily with an Invisalign cleaning solution.
Following these guidelines will help ensure the success of your Invisalign treatment and keep your aligners clean and looking their best. Remember to always consult your orthodontist or dentist for personalized advice and address any concerns you may have.
