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One of the best parts about clear aligners is the freedom they offer compared to braces. With no brackets or wires, you can remove your trays at mealtimes and enjoy most of the foods you love. But aligners still come with some important do’s and don’ts when it comes to eating and drinking.
While some rules are obvious — like not chewing food with aligners in — others are less well known but just as important for keeping treatment on track. Here’s a guide to what’s safe, what to avoid, and some surprising pitfalls patients don’t always expect.
The Golden Rule: Remove Aligners Before Eating or Drinking
Aligners should always be removed before eating or drinking anything other than water. This prevents:
- Staining — Foods and drinks can discolor aligners, making them less invisible.
- Damage — Chewing with aligners in can warp or crack them.
- Trapped debris — Food caught between trays and teeth increases the risk of cavities and gum problems.
Water is the only exception. Everything else should wait until aligners are out.
Safe Foods and Drinks (Once Aligners Are Removed)
Once trays are out, you can eat and drink almost anything — but it’s smart to keep dental health in mind. Safe options include:
- Fruits and vegetables — Crunchy, fibrous foods help clean teeth naturally.
- Lean proteins — Chicken, fish, eggs, and beans support overall health.
- Whole grains — A balanced diet contributes to gum and bone strength.
- Water and milk — Hydrating and less likely to cause staining or enamel erosion.
As long as aligners are removed, you can enjoy your usual meals. Just remember to brush before reinserting trays.
Non-Obvious Pitfalls to Avoid
Even with aligners out, there are certain food and drink habits that can cause unexpected problems.
Coffee, Tea, and Red Wine
These drinks are common culprits for staining — not just your aligners, but your teeth themselves. Reinserting trays without brushing afterward can trap pigments and accelerate discoloration.
Sparkling Water and Seltzer
It may seem harmless, but carbonated drinks are acidic. Frequent sipping, especially with flavorings, can weaken enamel over time if aligners trap that acidity against your teeth.
Sticky or Sugary Snacks
Candy, dried fruit, and gum leave behind sugars that feed cavity-causing bacteria. If aligners go back in without cleaning your teeth, the risk of decay increases.
Hot Beverages
Never sip coffee, tea, or hot chocolate with aligners in place. The heat can warp the plastic, affecting fit and effectiveness.
Alcoholic Drinks
Beer, wine, cocktails, and mixers often contain sugar and acid that harm enamel. They can also stain aligners if trays are put back in without brushing.
Best Practices for Meals and Snacks
- Always brush and floss after eating before putting aligners back in.
- If brushing isn’t possible, rinse with water or mouthwash as a temporary fix.
- Carry a travel kit with a toothbrush, paste, floss, and case when out and about.
- Stick to meal times instead of frequent snacking — it helps with compliance and oral health.
What About Chewing Gum?
Chewing gum with aligners in is not recommended — it can stick to trays and distort their shape. Even sugar-free gum should be avoided while wearing aligners. If you enjoy gum, do so during mealtimes with aligners out.
Hydration Habits
Water is your best friend during aligner treatment. It keeps your mouth clean, reduces dry mouth, and doesn’t harm your trays. Other beverages, however, should be consumed only when aligners are out.
If you’re in a situation where you can’t brush right away, swish with water before putting trays back in — it’s not a substitute for brushing, but it helps.
Aligners and Weight Loss Myths
Some patients notice changes in snacking habits because aligners encourage structured eating. While this might reduce grazing between meals, it’s important not to view aligners as a diet tool. Nutrition matters for strong teeth and healthy gums, which are vital to orthodontic success.
Enjoy Food Without Compromising Treatment
Clear aligners allow you to keep enjoying most of your favorite meals and beverages — as long as you follow a few key rules. Remove aligners before eating, clean your teeth before putting them back in, and be mindful of sneaky pitfalls like staining drinks or acidic beverages. With smart habits, you can protect your aligners, your teeth, and your treatment progress.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
If you’re considering clear aligners but want to understand the do’s and don’ts of treatment, professional guidance makes all the difference. At Speaks Orthodontics in Denver, CO, Dr. Clif Speaks creates personalized Invisalign treatment plans with the tools and tips you need to succeed — from food choices to long-term smile care.
We proudly serve patients across Denver, including Capitol Hill, Washington Park, LoDo, and Cherry Creek.
Schedule your complimentary exam today and learn how clear aligners can fit your lifestyle.