If you’re considering getting Invisalign, you may be wondering if you can still smoke with the clear aligners in your mouth. The short answer is: probably not. Here’s why.
Introduction
Invisible braces, or Invisalign, are a type of orthodontic treatment that uses clear, removable aligners to straighten teeth. They are an alternative to traditional metal braces and are popular among adults and adolescents who want a less noticeable way to improve their smile.
While Invisalign aligners are very effective at straightening teeth, they are not meant to be used while smoking cigarettes or cigars. This is because the heat from the burning tobacco can warp the plastic aligners, making them less effective at doing their job. Additionally, the smoke from cigarettes and cigars can cause yellowing and discoloration of the aligners, making them more noticeable.
If you are considering getting Invisalign treatment, it is important to quit smoking before starting treatment. This will help ensure that you get the best possible results from your Invisalign aligners.
What is Invisalign?
Invisalign is a system of clear plastic aligners that are custom-made to fit over your teeth. The aligners are virtually invisible, so nobody will know you’re wearing them unless you tell them. Invisalign gradually moves your teeth into the desired position over time, until you have the beautiful, straight smile you’ve always wanted.
You will need to wear your Invisalign aligners for at least 20 to 22 hours per day in order to see results. You can take them out when you eat, brush, and floss your teeth. It’s important to clean your aligners daily as well, using either Invisalign’s cleaning system or mild soap and water.
The Invisalign Treatment Process
The Invisalign treatment process is simple. First, your orthodontist will take an impression of your teeth. Next, a customized treatment plan will be created, using computer-imaging technology, which will map out the series of movements your teeth will go through during treatment. Then, a series of clear aligners will be created specifically for you. You’ll wear each aligner for about two weeks before moving on to the next in the series, until your treatment is complete and you achieve the smile you’ve always wanted.
Invisalign and Smoking
It is not recommended to smoke while wearing Invisalign aligners. Smoking can cause staining and discoloration of the aligners, which can be difficult to remove. In addition, smoking can also cause bad breath, which can be unpleasant for both you and those around you. If you must smoke, it is recommended that you do so after removing your aligners.
The Dangers of Smoking with Invisalign
Smoking is one of the worst things you can do for your oral health, and if you’re currently wearing Invisalign aligners, it’s important to be extra careful. Here’s why:
- tobacco use can cause permanent staining of the aligners, making them difficult to clean and requiring you to replace them more often;
- smoking increases your risk for gum disease, which can lead to tooth loss;
- smoking makes it difficult for your mouth to heal after dental procedures, including having your Invisalign aligners put in or taken out;
- smoking also predisposes you to other serious health conditions like cancer, stroke, and heart disease.
If you are a smoker who is considering Invisalign treatment, we strongly recommend that you quit before starting your treatment plan. If you are not able to quit smoking completely, it’s important to at least limit your tobacco use as much as possible and brush your teeth thoroughly after each cigarette.
Quitting Smoking with Invisalign
If you’re trying to quit smoking, Invisalign can help. In fact, many people who use Invisalign find that it’s easier to kick the habit because they’re not constantly reminded of cigarettes by the sight and smell of them.
Invisalign aligners are also more comfortable to wear than traditional braces, which can make it easier to stick to your quit smoking plan. And because they’re nearly invisible, you won’t have to worry about people noticing that you’re not smoking.
If you’re ready to quit smoking and want to learn more about Invisalign, contact an orthodontist near you.
Invisalign and Other Orthodontic Treatments
Smoking and other tobacco use is not recommended while wearing any type of orthodontic appliance, including Invisalign clear aligners. Tobacco stains aligners, which can be difficult to remove. In addition, smokers are more likely to develop gum disease, which can lead to tooth loss. If you must smoke while wearing Invisalign, be sure to clean your aligners thoroughly afterwards.
Conclusion
Based on the evidence, it seems that invisalign will not impact your ability to smoke. There are some concerns that smoking may impact the success of your invisalign treatment, but more research is needed in this area. If you are concerned about the effects of smoking on your invisalign treatment, talk to your orthodontist.
