Can You Smoke with Invisalign?
If you’re considering or currently undergoing Invisalign treatment, one of the most common questions patients ask is: “Can you smoke with Invisalign?”
The short answer is: Smoking while wearing Invisalign aligners is strongly discouraged. While it’s technically possible, doing so can lead to several complications that affect both your oral health and the success of your treatment.
In this blog, we break down exactly why smoking with Invisalign is problematic, what risks are involved and what you should do if you’re a smoker starting Invisalign.
Why You Shouldn’t Smoke with Invisalign Aligners In
1. Staining and Discolouration
Invisalign are made from a clear thermoplastic material designed to be nearly invisible. Cigarette smoke contains tar and nicotine, both of which can stain the aligners quickly—making them yellow, cloudy and far more noticeable.
2. Odour and Taste
Smoking can cause the aligners to absorb unpleasant odours, which then sit in your mouth throughout the day. It can also affect your taste buds and overall freshness.
3. Warping and Damage
The heat from smoking—particularly cigarettes and vapes—can warp the plastic aligners, compromising their fit. Even minor warping can reduce their effectiveness, delaying results.
4. Increased Risk of Gum Disease
Smoking restricts blood flow and slows healing. Combined with Invisalign, which already requires excellent oral hygiene, smoking can significantly increase your risk of gum inflammation, dry mouth and periodontal issues.
5. Longer Treatment Times
If your aligners are not worn properly due to smoking breaks or require replacement from damage or staining, it can extend your treatment timeline.
Can You Remove Invisalign to Smoke?
Technically, yes—you can remove your aligners to smoke. However, Invisalign must be worn for 20–22 hours per day to be effective.
If you remove your aligners multiple times a day for smoke breaks, especially over long durations, this may:
- Compromise the total wear time
- Disrupt tooth movement
- Lead to delayed or less effective results
If you must smoke, limit it to brief windows, clean your mouth afterwards and reinsert your aligners only when your teeth and gums are clean.
What About Vaping or E-Cigarettes?
While vaping might seem like a safer alternative, it’s still not recommended with Invisalign. Vape aerosols contain substances that can:
- Stain the aligners
- Introduce sugary residues
- Alter the pH of your mouth and contribute to decay
Some vape pens also emit enough heat to warp the plastic.
Advice for Smokers Starting Invisalign
If you’re a smoker and planning Invisalign treatment, here are some key recommendations:
- Aim to quit or reduce smoking before starting
- Never smoke with aligners in
- Keep aligners in their case when removed
- Brush and rinse after every cigarette before reinserting
- Be honest with your Invisalign provider so they can give tailored guidance
Final Thoughts: Should You Smoke with Invisalign?
Smoking during Invisalign treatment isn’t just bad for your health—it compromises your investment in straighter teeth. Aligners are meant to be discreet, clean and effective. Smoking introduces discolouration, delays and oral complications.
If quitting isn’t immediately possible, limiting smoking, maintaining strict hygiene and following your provider’s advice can help reduce the risks.
Speak to EverySmile Leicester About Invisalign
At EverySmile, we’ve helped many patients—including smokers—successfully complete Invisalign treatment. Our team will work with you to create a personalised plan and offer guidance every step of the way.
