Invisalign has become a popular alternative to traditional braces because you can get the same great results much more discretely. The aligners fit snuggly over your teeth to gently push them into their ideal placements. They’re made of clear plastic and are much less visibly noticeable than bulky metal brackets.
Some foods and drinks can leave them in less-than-ideal condition, however, and coffee is one of them. That’s bad news for patients who enjoy their daily cup of joe! Keep reading to learn why indulging in your favorite beverage might not be such a great idea with Invisalign, and what you can do to reduce potential problems.
Why Shouldn’t I Drink Coffee While Wearing Invisalign?
There are a few good reasons that you should consider curbing your coffee habit while wearing your aligners, including:
- Staining. Coffee, tea, red wine, and chocolate all contain tannins, which give them their bitter flavor. They also stain both your teeth as well as your Invisalign. It defeats the purpose of clear aligners if they are foggy or tinted!
- Cavities. Unfortunately, coffee is also naturally acidic which can hurt your teeth. Acid wears down the protective enamel leaving your pearly whites more vulnerable to discoloration and decay. If you use additives like milk or sweeteners, those attract bacteria which contribute to corrosion.
- Bad breath. Sipping your favorite bean beverage can dry out your mouth, which makes it a breeding ground for unwanted germs.
- Warping. You should avoid exposing your aligners to hot water or other liquids because the plastic can become misshapen when heated. Your aligner trays can’t perform their function if they no longer fit.
Is There Anything I Can Do?
Many people find it nearly impossible to give up on coffee entirely, so if you’re having a hard time then you’re not alone! Try following these tips so that you can still enjoy it while minimizing potential damage.
- Remove your aligners. It’s a great rule of thumb to remove your Invisalign whenever you’re eating or drinking. Take them out and put them in their carrying case to enjoy your cup of joe, then replace them once you’re done.
- Drink quickly. It’s better to finish your coffee in 15-30 minutes rather than sip on it for an hour or two every morning. This limits how long your teeth are exposed to toxic ingredients.
- Reduce sugar. Coffee with copious amounts of milk and sugar is more harmful to your pearly whites than leaving it black. Curbing how much you use can mitigate potential issues.
- Rinse after. It’s a good idea to rinse or brush your teeth afterward to make sure there’s no residue left behind before you put your aligners back in.
It’s still possible to enjoy your favorite drink with Invisalign, you just may have to take a few precautions. It’ll be worth the extra effort when your treatment is complete, and you have a straight, sparkling smile to show for it!
About the Practice
Our skilled dentists at Oakton Dentistry by Design both have years of experience meeting patients’ unique oral healthcare needs. We take the time to get to know your dental history and concerns so we can create customized treatment plans just for you. We use state-of-the-art technology to provide cosmetic solutions, including teeth whitening and Invisalign, to give you the smile you deserve. You’re welcome to request an appointment on our website or by calling (703) 938-4300.