Smoking is an incredibly detrimental habit for the health of the mouth and body. It can cause a range of issues, which then go on to affect the quality of a person’s life, whether that be from minor impacts like bad breath or more serious issues like oral cancer.
Why you shouldn’t smoke with your clear aligner
Invisalign are designed to blend with the natural teeth; its transparent appearance allows it to work on moving the teeth discreetly. Introducing cigarette smoke to the aligner exposes it to the chemicals (nicotine and tar), which are known for producing a deep yellowish-brown residue.
The residue clings to any surface it comes into contact with, often staining it, leaving a brown or yellow tinge behind. Invisalign is affected the same way that the teeth are by smoking, becoming discoloured.
Discolouration on the product contributes to a dirty and uneven colour appearance for the teeth. This defeats the purpose of the aligner, which is to blend in with the natural smile. Exposure to these chemicals also leaves lingering bad bacteria on the appliance, which can then be reintroduced into the mouth, resulting in more issues like potential plaque or decay development.
Another added risk with smoking is the exposure to a small burst of intense heat through the inhalation of smoke. The material used to create them is thermoplastic and therefore sensitive to heat, sometimes causing the tray to warp, making it ill-fitting.
The risks of smoking on oral health
There are several risks associated with smoking; the main impacts on our health include:
- Bad breath
- Dental stains
- Dental decay
- Plaque and tartar buildup
- Mouth sores
- Gum disease
- Oral cancer
Best Practices with Invisalign
The best approach for patients using Invisalign is to avoid smoking with their aligners in. Quitting is often recommended, as it can slow the rate at which the teeth move, thus prolonging the treatment length.
In cases where individuals won’t wear it, removal of the aligner is advised. Brushing the teeth before re-inserting the product is important in preventing bacteria from becoming trapped between the teeth and Invisalign. Storing the aligner in a clean and dry container helps to keep it safe during periods when the wearer is smoking.
The dentist will likely not be tolerant of replacing aligners for the sake of staining, so avoiding this issue helps to mitigate the impacts of staining.