If you have braces or Invisalign, it is essential to be mindful of what you eat and drink. While there are plenty of foods to avoid, paying attention to what you drink is equally important. Some beverages can cause damage to your orthodontic appliances, leading to delays in your treatment.
Here are some drinks you should avoid while undergoing orthodontic treatment:
Soft drinks: Soft drinks are high in sugar and acidity, which can erode the enamel on your teeth and cause decay. The carbonation in soft drinks can also cause your braces to come loose or break.
Sports drinks: Sports drinks may seem like a healthy choice, but they are also high in sugar and acidity. The high sugar content can cause tooth decay, while the acidity can erode the enamel on your teeth.
Fruit juices: While fruit juices contain vitamins and minerals, they are also high in sugar. The sugar content can cause decay, and the acidity can erode the enamel on your teeth.
Energy drinks: Energy drinks are high in sugar and caffeine, which can cause tooth decay and stain your teeth. The high acidity in these drinks can also erode the enamel on your teeth.
Coffee and tea: Coffee and tea can stain your teeth, and the high acidity in these drinks can erode the enamel on your teeth.
Alcohol: Alcoholic beverages can dry out your mouth, reducing saliva production. Saliva is essential for keeping your mouth clean and neutralizing acid. The high sugar content in some alcoholic beverages can also cause tooth decay.
Milkshakes: Milkshakes are high in sugar and can be challenging to clean from your teeth and braces, increasing the risk of tooth decay.
Citrus drinks: Citrus drinks like lemonade and orange juice are high in acidity and can erode the enamel on your teeth. The acid can also irritate the soft tissues in your mouth.
While avoiding these beverages altogether may be challenging, limiting their consumption during orthodontic treatment is best. If you indulge in any of these drinks, rinse your mouth with water immediately afterward. Additionally, brush your teeth after every meal and snack to keep your teeth and braces clean.
At Michael J. Armento DMD, we want to help you achieve a beautiful, healthy smile. If you have any questions about what to eat or drink during your orthodontic treatment, please don’t hesitate to contact us. We’re here to help!
To learn more about our orthodontic services, please visit our website.