You should not eat while wearing Invisalign aligners; always remove them before eating any food or drinking anything except water to avoid damage, staining, or warping of the trays.
Eating with Invisalign
You can eat whatever foods you wish during Invisalign treatment, thanks to the removable design of the trays. Unlike traditional braces, there are no strict dietary restrictions—simply take your aligners out before eating and store them safely. This includes all meals and snacks throughout the day.
Why Remove Aligners to Eat?
Eating with your aligners in place can damage them, cause staining, and may even contribute to oral health problems by trapping food and bacteria inside the trays. The aligners are not built to withstand the pressure of chewing, and food particles can easily get stuck, leading to potential cavities and bad breath.
Caring for Your Aligners
After eating, it is important to brush your teeth before putting your aligners back in. This keeps both your teeth and the trays clean and free of food debris, which helps prevent staining or odor. Aim to wear your aligners 20-22 hours per day for the best treatment results.
Foods to Choose During Invisalign
- Any food is allowed if trays are removed.
- For sore teeth after new trays, choose soft foods like yogurt, cooked vegetables, eggs, and smoothies.
- Avoid hard or sticky foods if you have attachments on your teeth.
In summary, Invisalign offers flexibility with eating, but always remove aligners first and practice good oral hygiene after meals for optimal treatment and tray care.