Welcome to Milestone Orthodontics, your reliable orthodontist in Paramus, NJ, and West Orange, NJ. We understand that receiving orthodontic treatment, such as Invisalign, requires some lifestyle adjustments, especially with eating. In this blog post, we’ll discuss “What Foods Can I Eat with Invisalign?” and how to practice proper oral hygiene while undergoing treatment. This guide will assist you in getting the most out of your Invisalign journey, whether you live in Paramus, NJ, or elsewhere.
Understanding Invisalign
Let’s briefly discuss Invisalign before we delve into the world of foods that are compatible with it. Invisalign is a popular orthodontic treatment that gradually moves your teeth into the ideal position using a set of clear aligners. Additionally, the fact that Invisalign is nearly invisible makes it a preferred option for many people seeking orthodontic treatment. This is one of the major advantages they have over traditional metal braces.
Because the Invisalign aligners are removable, you can take them off to eat. This feature lets you eat most of your favorite foods while receiving treatment. You must adhere to a few crucial rules to keep your treatment on time and aligners in good condition.
What Foods Can I Eat with Invisalign?
Soft Foods:
During Invisalign treatment, soft foods are your best friend. They won’t harm your aligners and are nice to them. Some examples of soft foods are yogurt, mashed potatoes, scrambled eggs, and smoothies. These options ensure your overall health and well-being during treatment because they are safe and satisfying.
Rice and pasta:
These foods are great options because they are simple to chew and won’t place too much pressure on your aligners. Be careful while eating sauces like tomato sauce that might stain your aligners. After eating, rinse your mouth and aligners to avoid stains.
Soft Fruits:
Fruits are a healthy choice, but some can be difficult to consume while using aligners. Choose softer fruits like melons, grapes, and bananas instead. After eating fruit, be sure to thoroughly brush your teeth and aligners to remove any remaining sugars.
Proteins:
Protein is essential for the repair of muscles and tissues. Fish, tofu, and properly cooked chicken are all safe to eat while wearing Invisalign. Simply steer clear of very tough or chewy cuts of meat.
Dairy products:
Dairy products, such as cheese, milk, and yogurt, are tasty but also soft and rich in calcium, which is great for your teeth and bones. Remember to brush your teeth and aligners after dairy consumption to avoid bacterial growth.
Grains:
For Invisalign users, soft grains like oatmeal and cereal with milk are useful and safe options. They are simple to enjoy and won’t harm your aligners.
Foods to Avoid with Invisalign
While you can consume plenty of things when wearing Invisalign in Paramus, NJ, it’s equally vital to be mindful of things that may damage your aligners or hinder your treatment. These foods should be avoided:
Hard foods and Crunchy:
You should avoid foods like popcorn, nuts, and hard candies since they can break or harm your aligners.
Sticky and Chewy Foods:
Candy that is sticky or chewy, like taffy, gum, caramel, and other candy, might become stuck in your aligners and cause hygiene issues.
Sugary foods and beverages:
Consuming too much sugar increases the risk of developing cavities and other dental problems. During your Invisalign treatment, you must limit your sweet foods and drinks.
Staining Foods:
Foods and Beverages that Can Stain Your Aligners Include Red Wine, Coffee, and Dark-Colored Berries. If you do eat them, please be sure to clean your aligners immediately.
Maintaining Oral Hygiene with Invisalign
Throughout your Invisalign treatment, maintaining good oral hygiene is essential. To keep your teeth and aligners clean, follow these suggestions:
Brush and Floss:
After every meal or snack, brush your teeth and aligners. To carefully clean your aligners, use a soft-bristled toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste. Flossing is also crucial to eliminate food particles lodged between your teeth.
Rinse Aligners:
Before putting them back in your mouth, rinse your aligners with warm water. The plastic can distort if you use hot water, so avoid doing so.
Aligner Cleaning Products:
Use specialized aligner cleaning products or Invisalign cleaning crystals to keep your aligners clean and clear.
Regular dental checkups:
Continue your regular attending at your dental checkups. Your orthodontist at Milestone Orthodontics in Paramus, NJ, will monitor your orthodontic growth and ensure the health of your teeth.
Conclusion
Invisalign treatment offers a convenient and discreet way to achieve a straighter smile, and you can still enjoy a wide variety of foods while wearing the aligners. So, you might be wondering, “What foods can I eat with Invisalign?” Following the guidelines in this blog post and maintaining good oral hygiene, you can make the most of your Invisalign journey. If you’re in Paramus, NJ, and looking for an orthodontist to guide you through the process, don’t hesitate to contact Milestone Orthodontics. We’re here to help you achieve the smile you’ve always wanted.
