If you’re considering straightening your smile with Invisalign, or you’ve already kicked off your orthodontic journey, one of the first questions that may come to mind is: “Do I have to give up coffee?” The good news is, in most cases, you don’t! However, there are still some very important guidelines that you’ll want to follow to protect your aligners, avoid staining, and keep your treatment on track. Here’s what you need to keep in mind.
Invisalign & Coffee: Not the Best Combo
Invisalign aligners are made of clear, BPA-free plastic that is designed to be discreet, in addition to being comfortable. Patients wear these aligners over their teeth for 22 hours each day, only removing them for meals and hygiene. While durable, these aligners are not designed to handle the pressure of biting and chewing; likewise, they’re also not able to withstand the hot, pigmented beverages like coffee.
The heat from coffee can warp the shape of the aligners, causing them to no longer fit correctly—and thereby making them unable to properly move your teeth. Coffee can also stain your aligners, making them yellow or cloudy. Plus, coffee is acidic and often sugary, meaning that it can increase your risk of cavities by trapping bacteria underneath the aligners.
Tips for Enjoying Your Coffee Without Staining Your Aligners
You’ll want to follow the Invisalign “golden rule” at all times during your treatment, which is simple: remove your trays any time you eat or drink anything aside from clear water. You can store them in their carrying case until it’s time to put them back in.
Some other tips that can ensure you don’t stain your aligners include:
- Drink your coffee with your meals instead of sipping it slowly throughout the morning or afternoon. This limits the amount of time your aligners spend outside your mouth.
- Always rinse your mouth with water or brush your teeth before reinserting your aligners.
- Consider drinking iced coffee to lessen the chance of your aligners becoming warped from warm temperatures.
- Drink your coffee black or with fewer sugary additives, to make it less of a cavity risk.
If your aligners do end up being a little stained, don’t worry—you won’t have to wear them much longer if you stick to your treatment plan. That said, with a little planning and mindfulness, you should be able to protect your aligners, prevent staining, and enjoy a straighter, confident smile in no time at all, whether you drink coffee regularly or not.
About the Practice
With Dr. Codi Saunders leading the way, our team has proudly served patients and families in Milton and the surrounding communities for several years. We offer a wide range of orthodontic services for all ages, including metal braces, clear/ceramic braces, Invisalign, and more. If you have any questions about the blog or you’re ready to schedule an appointment for yourself or a loved one, you can call or visit us online for more information or assistance. Telephone: (617) 698-8883.