Do you love sipping on a warm, morning cup of joe? Have you also started wearing your Invisalign trays? If so, it can be problematic in the long run, as you won’t want to hurt your treatment process while enjoying your favorite drink. However, there might be ways to work around your situation. Keep reading to learn why you shouldn’t drink coffee while wearing Invisalign, and how a few changes in habit can let you keep enjoying it!
Why You Shouldn’t Drink Coffee While Wearing Invisalign
The only thing you should consume while having your Invisalign trays on is pure water. Anything else could potentially cause major problems that’ll interfere with your treatment. Here are a few things that can happen to your clear aligners with coffee:
- Warped trays: Coffee is usually served hot or warm, making for a nice comfort drink. However, Invisalign trays are heat-sensitive, meaning they can become warped or permanently damaged from a hot beverage.
- Stains and discoloration: Any foods or drinks other than water can easily stain or discolor your clear aligners. Additionally, coffee can become trapped between the trays and your teeth after drinking it, increasing your risk of staining your smile.
- Increased risk of decay: Not only is coffee dark and hot, it’s also acidic. Most people also add lots of sugar and cream in their cups. If you drink this with Invisalign on, you’ll have a higher chance of tooth decay, especially if the acids and sugar get stuck underneath the tray.
4 Tips for Coffee Lovers With Invisalign
While you should avoid coffee with Invisalign trays on, you can still enjoy it when they’re off! Before enjoying your cup of joe, be sure to take your aligners out and safely store them in their case. You might also consider soaking them as you drink your coffee. Once you’ve finished, brush or rinse your teeth and aligners before putting them back on to avoid trapped food particles.
In addition, try not to sip your coffee gradually, as this can interrupt your 20–22-hour Invisalign wear time. It’s best to drink it in 15-30 minutes. You should also limit how much sugar you add to avoid cavities.
You can still enjoy your morning cup of coffee while undergoing Invisalign, but you’ll have to make a few adjustments to your habits. By taking the proper precautions, you can ensure a smoother treatment for achieving a perfectly straight smile!
About the Author
Dr. Zelia Cannon earned her dental degree from the New York University College of Dentistry. She continues to pursue advanced training to improve her skills and expertise, and is a member of the American Academy of Esthetic Dentistry. With a passion for delivering outstanding and comprehensive dental care, she offers multiple treatments, including Invisalign, to help you achieve your best smile. If you want to know more about what to avoid during Invisalign, visit her website or call 973-729-9044.