Can I Eat with Invisalign On?

Close-up of a woman smiling while holding a clean Invisalign aligner next to her face.

If you're considering Invisalign to straighten your teeth, one of your first questions might be: Can I eat with Invisalign on? The answer is simple—no, you shouldn't eat with Invisalign aligners in your mouth. While Invisalign offers the freedom to enjoy all your favourite foods, the trays must be removed before eating or drinking anything other than water. This helps protect your aligners and ensures your treatment stays on track.

What Is Invisalign?

Invisalign is a clear aligner system designed to gradually move your teeth into better alignment. These custom-fit trays are made from smooth, BPA-free plastic and are virtually invisible when worn, making them a popular alternative to metal braces.

The treatment begins with a 3D digital scan of your mouth to map out your tooth movement. Based on your treatment plan, you'll receive a series of aligners to wear for 1–2 weeks each. These work best when worn for 20–22 hours per day, and should only be removed when eating, drinking anything other than water, or brushing your teeth.

Why Eating with Invisalign Is a No-Go

It might seem harmless to sneak a snack while wearing your aligners, but doing so can lead to several problems:

  • Damage to Aligners: Invisalign trays aren't built to withstand the pressure of chewing. Eating with them in place can cause cracks, warping, or distortion, all of which could interrupt your treatment.
  • Staining and Discolouration: Food and drinks can stain the clear plastic, making the trays more noticeable.
  • Bacterial Buildup: Trapping food particles under your aligners can create a breeding ground for bacteria, increasing your risk of tooth decay and gum disease.
  • Bad Odours: Residue left behind from food can lead to unpleasant smells if aligners aren’t properly cleaned.

What Can You Drink with Invisalign?

Water is the only beverage you should drink while your aligners are in. Hot or coloured drinks like coffee, tea, soda, or wine can stain your aligners or even warp them due to temperature. To enjoy other drinks, remove your aligners first, and then brush or rinse your mouth before putting them back in to avoid trapping sugar or acid against your teeth.

Tips for Eating During Invisalign Treatment

Although Invisalign aligners are removable, a few good habits can help you protect your trays and get the most from your treatment:

  • Always remove your aligners before eating or drinking anything but water.
  • Store them in their case to prevent loss or contamination while you eat.
  • Brush and floss your teeth after each meal or snack to prevent food particles from sitting between your teeth and aligners.
  • Rinse your aligners before reinserting them to keep them fresh and free of bacteria.
  • Stick to your aligner schedule and wear them for the recommended number of hours each day.

Cleaning Your Invisalign Trays

Keeping your aligners clean is essential—not just for hygiene, but also for maintaining their clear appearance. Here's how to do it:

  • Rinse after every removal with lukewarm water to get rid of saliva and debris.
  • Gently brush with a soft toothbrush and clear, unscented soap (avoid coloured or abrasive toothpaste).
  • Soak them daily in Invisalign cleaning crystals or a dentist-approved solution to kill bacteria and remove any lingering buildup.
  • Avoid hot water, which can warp the plastic and ruin the fit of your trays.
Clean Invisalign case open with clear aligners neatly placed inside.

Eating Tips to Support Your Invisalign Journey

Even though you'll be taking your aligners out to eat, your diet and habits can still impact your progress. Consider these tips:

  • Plan your meals and snacks around your schedule to avoid removing aligners too frequently.
  • Limit snacking to reduce how often you have to take out and clean your trays.
  • Cut back on sugary and acidic foods that could increase your risk of cavities while wearing aligners.
  • Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated and help flush away food particles between meals.

Invisalign for Teens & Adults

Invisalign isn't just for adults—teens can benefit too. For younger patients, Invisalign provides the freedom to eat what they love without worrying about brackets or wires. As long as your aligners are worn consistently and removed before meals, the results can be just as effective as traditional braces.

Experience the Invisalign Advantage at Rundle Dental in Calgary

Straightening your teeth shouldn't mean sacrificing your lifestyle. Invisalign offers a flexible, discreet solution for achieving a healthier, more confident smile. By removing your aligners before eating and taking care to clean them properly, you can protect your investment and stay on track with your treatment.At Rundle Dental in Calgary, AB, we're proud to offer Invisalign as part of our personalized orthodontic care. If you’re ready to learn more about your options or begin your Invisalign journey, book an appointment with us today. We're here to help you smile with confidence—every step of the way.