Can I eat and drink with aligners?
You take the trays out to eat and to drink anything other than water. It is advisable to brush your teeth, or at least rinse your mouth, before putting them back in.
Clear aligners
The trays are not designed for chewing: food could warp, crack or stain them. You therefore take them out at every meal, which lets you eat normally, with no particular restriction linked to the treatment.
Still water can be drunk with the trays in. Sweet, acidic or coloured drinks, however, such as tea, coffee or juice, can become trapped against the teeth and encourage cavities or staining. Hot drinks can also warp the plastic.
Before putting the trays back in, ideally brush your teeth. If that is not possible, a thorough rinse with water limits any residue.
The trays themselves are cleaned every day with cold or lukewarm water and a soft brush. Hot water should be avoided. The dentist gives you suitable care instructions.
This is a general answer. Only a consultation at the practice can tell what suits your situation.
Other questions in this section
- How do clear aligners work?
- How long does aligner treatment take?
- How many hours a day do aligners need to be worn?
- Do aligners hurt?
- Aligners or fixed braces: which should I choose, particularly as an adult?
- What happens after treatment: do I need a retainer?
- The treatment in detail : Clear aligners
- See the whole section
- All frequently asked questions