Most TikTok users are familiar with the concept of “little treats”: a trend, particularly among Gen-Z, that encourages rewarding oneself with small indulgences when possible. At 915 Smile Studio, we aren’t questioning whether those little treats are worth it (we know they are). Instead, we’re here to offer you a checklist for protecting your Invisalign in El Paso, especially during the holiday season.
Whether you choose to grab an extra box of sugar cookies or candy canes, or even just another latte, here’s how to protect your smile while indulging during the most wonderful time of the year. If you’re interested in starting Invisalign treatment, we invite you to book your initial appointment with our dental team and discover how our services can help.
What Foods Should El Paso Invisalign Patients Avoid?
Sometimes the foods we crave the most are the ones that are worst for our teeth while wearing Invisalign. This may be particularly true for those with Invisalign in El Paso, where snacks like chamoy and horchata can be high in sugar.
But aside from these more traditional options, there are a handful of small treats that can cause dental issues—and, as always, the main culprits are sugary foods and beverages with carbonation.
While we can’t tell you never to drink soda or consume candy, the following are options that are best to enjoy as “little treats”, and not big ones:
- Sticky candies (like chamoy)
- Hot drinks like coffee (think pumpkin spice lattes)
- Sodas, sparkling ciders, acidic beverages, and alcohol
- Pan dulce, sugar cookies, and sugary pastries
Pro-tip from 915 Smile Studio
It’s essential to remove your Invisalign trays before eating or drinking anything other than water. Rinse or brush your Invisalign trays before reinserting them, too, as an extra step to keep them and your teeth spotless and bright. Below, we offer a more comprehensive checklist to complete your holiday hygiene routine.
Invisalign El Paso: Protect Your Smile with a Healthy Holiday Hygiene Checklist
Being in the holiday spirit shouldn’t mean altogether avoiding all those little treats you’ve definitely earned. Below is a checklist to ensure you protect your Invisalign and your smile:
- Sip smarter: If you decide to have a pumpkin spice latte or holiday chai tea, use a straw after removing your Invisalign. Brush immediately after you finish to prevent staining and cavities.
- Crunch wisely: Never bite down on nuts and fruitcakes with your trays in—you risk hurting your teeth or requiring costly replacement trays.
- Pack like a pro: Traveling for the holidays? Whether it’s a road trip, the airport, or a quick ride across town, don’t forget your Invisalign case and an extra set of trays, if you have them.
- Use chewies after reinserting your trays: Ask your dentist at 915 Smile Studio for an extra set of chewies. These soft, colorful, cylindrical plastic pieces are chewed on, as the name implies, helping set your Invisalign trays into the proper position.
Enjoying those little treats shouldn’t stop you from achieving your Invisalign goals. It’s important to remember that consistency is key to ensuring your alignment trays do their job.
TikTok has glamorized occasional splurging, and there’s certainly nothing wrong with that. As long as you stay committed to cleaning and caring for your Invisalign trays, you can enjoy sweet treats and snacks without undoing the progress you and your dentist have worked so hard to maintain.
Enjoy Treats & Still Succeed with Invisalign In El Paso
Whether you’re navigating holiday sweets or just everyday cravings, your Invisalign plan doesn’t have to suffer. Our El Paso dental team is here to guide you on what to avoid. Learn how to take care of your Invisalign trays like a pro—from the pros here at 915 Smile Studio.
Our office is standing by to help new and returning patients, as well as those who are curious about how Invisalign works. Schedule your Invisalign appointment in El Paso today and start making a healthier, straighter smile a reality.