Eating, Drinking, and Living with Clear Aligners: Tips for Success

Eating, Drinking, and Living with Clear Aligners: Tips for Success

11-03-2025

Clear aligners, such as Invisalign and Angel Aligner, have revolutionised orthodontics, offering a discreet and comfortable way to straighten teeth. However, adapting to life with clear aligners requires some lifestyle adjustments, particularly when it comes to eating, drinking, and maintaining your aligners.

At Dental & Cosmetic Clinic in Leicester, we want to ensure that you get the best results from your treatment. In this guide, we’ll cover essential tips for eating, drinking, and daily life with clear aligners, helping you achieve a smooth and successful treatment journey.

Eating with Clear Aligners: What You Need to Know

Always Remove Your Aligners Before Eating

Unlike traditional braces, clear aligners are not designed to withstand the pressure of chewing. Eating with your aligners in place can cause cracks, warping, or staining, which may compromise their effectiveness. Always take them out before eating or snacking.

Avoid Sticky and Hard Foods That Can Damage Your Teeth

While you can eat most foods, it’s best to limit hard, sticky, or overly chewy foods during treatment. Sticky foods, such as toffees and chewing gum, can contribute to plaque buildup, while very hard foods, like nuts or crusty bread, may cause stress on your teeth as they shift.

Brush Your Teeth Before Putting Your Aligners Back In

After eating, always brush and floss your teeth before reinserting your aligners. Failing to do so can trap food particles and bacteria inside your aligners, increasing the risk of tooth decay and bad breath. If brushing isn’t possible, rinse your mouth thoroughly with water before putting your aligners back in.

Drinking with Clear Aligners: What’s Safe and What to Avoid

Hydration is important for oral health, but when wearing clear aligners, not all drinks are safe. Here’s what you need to know:

Only Drink Water While Wearing Your Aligners

The safest beverage to consume while wearing aligners is plain water. Other drinks, including coffee, tea, and fizzy drinks, can stain or damage the aligners.

Avoid Sugary and Acidic Drinks

Sugary and acidic drinks, such as fruit juices and soft drinks, can cause enamel erosion and increase the risk of cavities. If consumed while wearing aligners, these beverages can get trapped against your teeth, intensifying their harmful effects.

Remove Aligners Before Drinking Hot Beverages

Hot drinks, like tea and coffee, can warp the plastic of your aligners, affecting their fit and effectiveness. If you enjoy a morning coffee or afternoon tea, remove your aligners first and rinse your mouth before putting them back in.

Living with Clear Aligners: Daily Habits for Success

Adjusting to life with clear aligners requires some commitment, but a few simple habits can make the process much smoother.

Wear Your Aligners for at Least 20-22 Hours a Day

For clear aligners to be effective, they must be worn for at least 20 to 22 hours per day. Only remove them when eating, drinking anything other than water, or cleaning your teeth.

Consistency is key to ensuring your treatment stays on track.

Keep Your Aligners Clean

Bacteria and plaque can build up on your aligners if they aren’t cleaned properly. To maintain their clarity and hygiene:

• Rinse them with lukewarm water every time you remove them.
• Brush them gently with a soft toothbrush (without toothpaste) to remove debris.

Avoid using hot water or harsh chemicals, as they can damage the plastic.

Store Your Aligners in Their Case When Not in Use

To prevent loss or damage, always store your aligners in their protective case when they’re not in your mouth. Leaving them exposed can lead to contamination or accidental damage.

Managing Discomfort with Clear Aligners

It’s normal to experience some mild discomfort when switching to a new aligner tray, as your teeth are gradually shifting. To ease the transition:

• Use orthodontic wax if aligners cause irritation to your gums or cheeks.
• Take mild pain relief (such as ibuprofen or paracetamol) if needed.
• Use a cold compress on your jaw if soreness persists.

Final Thoughts: Setting Yourself Up for Success

Living with clear aligners requires some adjustments, but the benefits of a straighter, healthier smile make it all worthwhile. By following these tips on eating, drinking, and daily aligner care, you can ensure your treatment is as smooth and effective as possible.

At Dental & Cosmetic Clinic in Leicester, we provide expert Invisalign and Angel Aligner treatment tailored to your needs. If you’re considering clear aligners or need guidance on your treatment, book a consultation with our team today!