Invisalign is one of the most popular orthodontic treatments around, having assisted countless patients with achieving straighter, healthier, and more attractive smiles. That said, as convenient and subtle as these clear aligners are, some patients still have reservations about how the treatment will impact their social life—especially when it comes to things like dating! Rest assured, you can still date confidently while undergoing any sort of orthodontic treatment. Here are three useful tips to keep in mind as you begin navigating the dating scene as an Invisalign patient.
Tip #1. Don’t Neglect Your Invisalign Guidelines
Dating is exciting; the prospect of meeting and getting to know someone new is something that greatly interests most people. That said, you shouldn’t get so swept up in your dates that you begin to neglect taking care of your Invisalign trays! Always wear them for the required 22 hours every day, and ensure that when they aren’t being worn, they’re safely stored in their carrying case. Be sure you’re also cleaning them as needed with the appropriate solutions, and if anything happens to one of them, speak with your dentist quickly. Prioritize your Invisalign as you’re dating, so that it serves you well and sets your smile up for numerous outings.
Tip #2. Be Mindful About What You’re Eating
One of the coolest aspects of Invisalign is that the clear aligners are completely removable, meaning patients don’t have to worry about what they’re eating as long as they’re taking their trays out before snacks and meals. However, if you’re planning on dating, you should still be mindful of what you eat since you may not always have the option to brush after eating. Certain foods, such as sticky, chewy, or brittle items, might leave debris in your teeth that become trapped underneath your aligners after you’ve put them back in. Other foods and drinks can leave your teeth stained or discolored, either temporarily or long-term. Even though Invisalign doesn’t come with dietary restrictions per se, it’s sometimes best to limit your options if you’re planning on going on dates, to avoid any awkward moments. Softer, safer options include things like sushi, pasta, and salads.
Tip #3. Be Upfront & Confident
When you first meet someone, don’t be afraid to mention to them that you’re wearing Invisalign—your smile is an important part of you, and during your orthodontic journey, your trays are an integral part of your smile. Even though they’re invisible while being worn, chances are that you’ll end up needing to remove them at some point when your date is in your company, so there’s no sense in hiding anything. Plus, being upfront about your treatment shows that you prioritize not just honesty, but also your oral health and you’re investing in a healthy, bright future smile!
About the Practice
The talented team at Lux Smiles has proudly served patients and families in Gramercy Park for several years, offering a wide range of preventive, restorative, and cosmetic treatment options including Invisalign clear aligners. If you have any questions about the blog, or you’d like to get in touch with the office to set up an appointment, you can contact their team online or by phone for additional information or assistance. Telephone: (212) 777-7126.