For many of us, a cup of coffee is a daily ritual, and it’s hard to imagine making it through some days without that morning pick-me-up! However, if you wear Invisalign, you might want to rethink how you’re enjoying your favorite beverage. While it’s still fine to drink coffee during your Invisalign treatment, you’ll want to take a few precautions—mainly, remembering to remove your aligners before each cup. Here’s what you need to know and some tips to keep in mind.
Why You Shouldn’t Drink Coffee While Wearing Invisalign
When you begin wearing your Invisalign aligners, your provider will go over all the treatment guidelines with you, including the basic dos and don’ts. One of the most important things to remember is that any time you eat or drink anything (except for clear water), the aligners need to be taken out.
The plastic material they’re made of, which makes them so discreet and comfortable to wear, can become damaged and warped due to warm temperatures, like a piping-hot cup of coffee. This is even the case if the coffee doesn’t seem “that hot” to you! And once an aligner loses its precise shape, it cannot do its job and will need to be replaced—putting your treatment on hold.
It’s also worth mentioning that coffee is among the most staining of all beverages, meaning that if you were to drink it while wearing your aligners, you’re likely to end up with stained, yellow aligners that are hardly “invisible” at all. Plus, this can also increase the likelihood of decay and cavities, since the aligners can trap sugary particles underneath them.
How to Enjoy Coffee During Invisalign Treatment
You don’t have to give up coffee entirely while you’re undergoing Invisalign treatment; just keep these tips in mind to protect your aligners and their progress:
- Always remove your aligners before drinking anything other than water, but before putting them back in, rinse your mouth to wash away acids, sugars, and dark-colored particles.
- Continue to maintain excellent oral hygiene by brushing and flossing after every meal. Likewise, keep your aligners clean so that they remain clear and fresh.
- Opt for iced coffee instead of hot coffee—or better yet, simply drink some water to stay hydrated and encourage your mouth’s saliva production, which helps with cavity prevention.
It would be heartbreaking to have to give up your beloved beverage entirely while undergoing Invisalign treatment! And although Invisalign aligners and coffee don’t mix, with a few sensible adjustments, you can stay caffeinated while achieving a straighter and more confident smile.
About the Practice
Under the leadership of Dr. Tricia Mockler, our team serves the dental needs of those in Campbell and the surrounding communities. We offer a wide range of services, including Invisalign clear aligners as an alternative to traditional orthodontics. If you have any questions or need to schedule an appointment, please reach out online or call today for more information or assistance. Telephone: (408) 871-0877.