Clear aligners like Invisalign have revolutionized orthodontic treatment by offering a nearly invisible and removable way to straighten teeth. But with those perks come some lifestyle adjustments, especially when it comes to your favorite daily habits. If you’re a coffee lover, you might be wondering: Can you drink coffee with clear aligners? The short answer is no, you should not drink coffee while wearing your aligners. Let’s explore why and what you can do to enjoy your coffee without compromising your treatment.
Why You Shouldn’t Drink Coffee with Aligners In
Staining
Clear aligners are made of transparent plastic, which can easily become discolored. Coffee is a dark beverage with strong pigments that can stain both your teeth and your aligners. Drinking coffee with your aligners in can cause them to turn yellow or brown, making your smile look dingy and defeating the purpose of having “invisible” orthodontics.
Heat Damage
Aligners are made from heat-sensitive plastic. While it’s not likely that a warm drink will melt your trays, repeated exposure to hot liquids like coffee can warp the plastic over time. Even subtle changes in shape can affect the way your aligners fit and ultimately slow down or interfere with your progress.
Bacteria and Decay
Coffee is acidic and many people add sugar. When it gets trapped between your aligners and your teeth, it can create a breeding ground for bacteria. This increases your risk of tooth decay, bad breath, and gum disease. Since aligners limit saliva flow over the teeth, these harmful substances can linger much longer than they would normally.
What You Can Do Instead
You don’t have to give up coffee completely, but you do need to make a few adjustments.
Remove Your Aligners First
Always take your aligners out before drinking anything other than water. This protects them from staining, heat, and sugar exposure. Be sure to store them in their case to avoid losing or damaging them while you sip.
Rinse and Brush Before Reinserting
After your coffee break, rinse your mouth with water and, ideally, brush your teeth before putting your aligners back in. This helps remove coffee residue and reduces the risk of trapping sugars and acids against your teeth.
Limit Coffee Time
Since you’re supposed to wear your aligners for 20 to 22 hours per day, it’s important to keep your aligners out for no more than 2 hours total each day. If you sip coffee slowly throughout the morning, it could interfere with this schedule. Try to limit your coffee drinking to one or two short breaks instead of dragging it out.
While you can’t drink coffee with your clear aligners in, you don’t have to give up your favorite morning beverage altogether. Just remove your trays, enjoy your coffee, clean your teeth, and get those aligners back in as soon as possible. By being mindful and consistent, you can enjoy your coffee and still stay on track with your orthodontic treatment.
About the Author
Dr. Sean M. Altenbach is a graduate of the University of Florida and has continued his education ever since, becoming a certified Invisalign provider and completing the Implant Educators Comprehensive Interdisciplinary Implant Continuum. He is also a member of the American Dental Association and the Florida Dental Association. Dr. Altenbach makes custom clear aligners in-house using a 3D printer, cutting costs and offering patients treatment at a fraction of the price they’d normally pay. Schedule your appointment through our website or call our Jacksonville office at (904) 448-0441.