Drinking with Invisalign other than water?

Question

I just got Invisalign and am well aware that I shouldn't eat or drink (besieged water) with them on. If I go on vacation it would be annoying having to remove them every time I wanted to drink. Would it be possible if I kept the Invisalign in but drank with a straw? This also goes to any occasion where alcoholic drinks are on the menu.

Curtis B. Bedont, DMD · Answer

Drinking water exclusively while wearing Invisalign aligners is always the best option. The reason we want to stick with water while wearing the aligners is that rapid tooth decay can occur. Our saliva helps wash away food and neutralizes acid in our mouth. When we have aligners on, food particles and acidic, sugary liquids can get under the aligners and sit there for an extended period of time. This is what causes the rapid tooth decay. So ideally you would want to take the aligners out before partaking in great tasting food and drink. That being said, decay is NOT likely to start if you - on occasion - drink something other than water with the aligners in, and then shortly after rinse out your mouth (AND the aligners) with water. Just remember that the longer your teeth are in direct contact with sugar and acidic food/beverages, the more likely decay will start to develop. Good luck!

Chia-Hung Lin, DDS · Answer

in an ideal world an orthodontist would want you to never take the aligner out. However, we live in a practical world. It is fine if you drink other beverages (with or without straw), as long as the beverage does not stain the Invisalign. You must, however, not be sipping on a drink slowly for hours. Always take out the aligner and swish your mouth with water to get rid of residual liquid immediately after you drink. If you cannot find a suitable place to remove your aligner, you should at least rinse with water to wash down other beverage you had just consumed.

Drinking with Invisalign other than water?

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Drinking with Invisalign other than water?

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Everything you need to know about Invisalign

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.