One of the most frequently asked questions among patients that have recently started Invisalign treatment is, “what types of food am I allowed to eat?” Well, the answer to that question is not that simple. If you just started your treatment with Invisalign in Red Deer, this article will help you learn what’s recommended when it comes to eating while undergoing this straightening system. So keep on reading to find out the do’s and don’ts when it comes to your diet.
What is Invisalign?
Before getting into the topic let’s go back to the basics. Invisalign is an orthodontic device designed to straighten your teeth using pressure. It consists of clear plastic removable trays that push your teeth into their correct positions. Invisalign will have the best results if worn at least 20 hours a day. However, you need to remove them to eat and drink certain foods and beverages. The thing is, eating while wearing your Invisalign can damage the tray which will significantly hinder the progress of your treatment. Also, the carbohydrates present in the food can stay on the trays which will increase the risk of tooth decay. Plus, your trays will become stained which nobody wants given that Invisalign is supposed to be a virtually invisible alternative to braces.
Things you should eat
According to your dentist in Red Deer, eating gum and drinking alcohol while wearing the tray is also ill-advised. Drinking any type of beverage that can potentially damage or stain your trays is not recommended. To prevent issues, if you can’t remove your trays then you should drink anything that is not water with a straw to minimize the contact of the substance with the aligner.
Other things that can be harmful while receiving treatment with Invisalign are extremely hard food that could push your teeth around. Some of these include hard candy and ice. Beware also of highly acidic food, spicy food, and ice cream. Acidic food and spicy food paired together can damage your dental enamel creating small cracks, while ice cream can increase your tooth sensitivity while undergoing the treatment. Pop is also very detrimental to your oral health, so if you’re a fan of fizzy drinks, find a substitute. After all, they’re highly acidic and contain immense quantities of sugar which increases your risk for cavities. Talk with a dentist near you about more specific foods that should be avoided while receiving your treatment.
What should you eat?
To keep a healthy smile, you need to maintain a balanced diet. However, the focus should be on increasing the number of fibrous fruits and vegetables you eat daily. Not only will the fibre present in these foods help you clean your teeth and increase salivation, but it will also contribute to your overall health. Protein drinks are also recommended in moderation as it becomes a slower food supply to bacteria in your mouth. Also, remember the importance of hydration. Drinking plenty of water will help you wash away some of the carbohydrates left behind by food and helps the production of saliva, which is needed to keep a healthy pH in your oral cavity.
Hygiene is important
Lastly, no matter how healthy your diet is, you need to combine it with proper dental habits. Remember to brush and floss daily, which is always essential to keep your teeth healthy in any situation. Furthermore, remember to visit your dentist regularly to prevent any dental problems and have dental cleanings performed at least twice a year. Talk to your dentist who provides Invisalign near you about how to improve your technique while undergoing treatment. If you have any concerns, they will be prepared to assist you.