Invisalign (also called invisible braces, invisible aligners, or plastic aligners) is a revolutionary treatment that has gained popularity as an alternative to traditional braces to achieve straighter teeth. There are no food restrictions, as you remove them when consuming foods or beverages (except water). Plus, it helps you give a straighter smile without needing metal wires or brackets. This is especially true for adult patients who don’t want these in their mouths.
It involves wearing a series of clear, custom-made transparent aligners to fit your teeth. These aligners gradually shift your teeth into their desired position.
But one common concern among those considering Invisalign treatment is whether it can cause bad breath. So, does Invisalign give you bad breath?
Does Invisalign Make Your Breath Smell?
Invisalign itself does not directly cause bad breath. However, certain factors related to wearing the aligners can contribute to the issue.
Why Do I Have Bad Breath with Invisalign?
1. Bacteria Buildup
When you wear your Invisalign aligners, they create a snug fit around your teeth. This snug fit creates a warm and moist environment in your mouth, which can be an ideal ground for bacteria. Without proper care, bacteria interacting with food particles and saliva can produce foul-smelling compounds, causing bad breath.
2. Dietary Habits
Certain foods, such as garlic and onions, are notorious for causing bad breath. When you have Invisalign aligners, these odorous substances can become trapped against your teeth, leading to persistent bad breath.
3. Inadequate Oral Hygiene
Maintaining good oral hygiene is crucial when undergoing any orthodontic treatment, including Invisalign. If you don’t properly clean your teeth and aligners after meals, bacteria and food particles can accumulate, leading to unpleasant breath.
4. Dental Problems
Oral health issues like tooth decay, gum disease, and infection can cause bad breath. If you’re experiencing persistent bad breath while wearing Invisalign aligners, you must visit your dentist for an examination. A dental professional can help diagnose the underlying cause of your bad breath and provide effective treatment options.
What causes Invisalign dry mouth?
Dry mouth is another common concern associated with wearing Invisalign aligners. A dry mouth occurs when your mouth does not produce enough saliva to keep it adequately moisturized.
This can happen for a few reasons, including:
- Decreased saliva flow. Wearing Invisalign aligners can sometimes result in decreased saliva flow. The aligners cover the surface of your teeth, reducing exposure to air and saliva. This reduced airflow can contribute to dry mouth.
- Breathing through the mouth. Some individuals tend to breathe through their mouths, especially while wearing the aligners. Mouth breathing can cause dryness and lead to a parched sensation in the mouth.
- Irritation of the gums. Invisalign aligners can cause dry mouth due to the irritation of the gums. The aligners are seen as foreign objects by the mouth, leading to swelling and irritation of the gums, which can result in reduced saliva production and, ultimately, dry mouth.
- Dehydration. Dehydration is another possible cause of dry mouth while wearing Invisalign. When wearing the aligners, some people may experience increased saliva production due to having foreign objects in their mouths. This excessive saliva production can lead to dehydration if not balanced with enough water intake. Additionally, the aligners can create a barrier that restricts the natural flow of saliva, further contributing to dry mouth and potential dehydration.
How to Avoid Invisalign Dry Mouth and Foul Breath
Fortunately, there are steps you can take to minimize the occurrence of dry mouth and combat bad breath during treatment, such as:
- Maintain excellent oral hygiene. Dental hygiene routines like brushing your teeth after every meal and regular flossing can help prevent strong odors.
- Stay hydrated. Drinking plenty of water throughout the day can help keep your mouth moist and prevent dry mouth. Aim to drink at least eight glasses of water daily. Keep a bottle of water on hand at all times while on treatment.
- Avoid problematic foods. Limit your consumption of foods known to cause bad breath or pungent foods, such as garlic and onions. If you eat them, thoroughly clean your teeth and aligners afterward.
- Use sugarless gum. Chewing sugar-free gum can stimulate saliva production and alleviate dry mouth. Opt for gum with xylitol, which has been found to reduce the growth of harmful bacteria in the mouth.
- Follow your dentist’s instructions. Your dentist will provide specific guidelines for wearing your aligners. Follow these instructions diligently to ensure optimal oral health and minimize any potential issues.
- Keep your aligners clean. Make sure to clean your aligners regularly with clear, liquid soap. Gently brush them with a soft-bristled toothbrush every time you brush your teeth, and rinse with lukewarm water to remove stains or food debris. Avoid using hot water, as this can warp your aligners. In addition, you can soak them in denture cleaner, hydrogen peroxide solution, or water every time you take them out.
- Visit your dentist for professional cleaning. While at-home cleaning is essential, visiting your dentist for a professional teeth cleaning twice a year is also essential. This will help keep plaque and bacteria from accumulating on the surface of your teeth and aligners, allowing you to maintain optimal oral health.
- Use antibacterial mouthwash. Mouthwash can help reduce the bacteria in your mouth and keep your breath fresh. Use a mouth rinse specifically designed for Invisalign aligners, or consult your dentist for recommendations. Avoid alcohol-based mouthwashes, which can dry out your mouth and further contribute to dryness.
- Use water flossers to clean between your teeth and gums. Water flossers use a stream of water to remove plaque and food debris between the teeth and gums, which can help reduce unpleasant odor. It also helps keep your gums healthy.
- Limit your intake of caffeinated beverages. While caffeinated drinks like coffee alone can cause dry mouth, studies show caffeine can reduce or inhibit saliva production. Also, they can discolor your aligners, so it’s best to avoid them. In addition, it’s important to note only to drink plain water when wearing your aligners.
The Bottom Line: Maintain Good Oral Hygiene
Invisalign aligner treatment can be excellent for straightening your teeth and achieving a healthy smile without the visible appearance of traditional braces. While it does not directly cause a bad smell or dry mouth, certain factors related to wearing the aligners can contribute to these concerns. You can maintain fresh breath and a healthy mouth throughout your Invisalign journey by practicing good oral hygiene, staying hydrated, and avoiding problematic foods.
If you’re considering Invisalign, remember that bad breath is not an inherent consequence of the treatment.
