Let Me Get Something Clear: Can I Drink Coffee with Invisalign?

Invisalign has allowed countless patients to realign their teeth without the conspicuous metal parts of traditional braces or the frustrating dietary restrictions they require. While this incredible treatment allows patients to enjoy any foods and beverages they like, it’s important to take certain precautions to prevent unsightly dental stains and infections that can cause costly treatment delays. Here’s a quick guide to how you can enjoy coffee without disrupting your Invisalign treatment.

What Are the Risks of Drinking Coffee with Invisalign?

Coffee’s bold, rich color is part of the pleasure of drinking it, but this robust shade is due to the beverage being rich in pigments and tannins that can lead to unsightly dental stains if you aren’t careful. Drinking coffee while wearing your Invisalign aligners can allow some of the dark liquid to be trapped between the teeth and the orthodontic appliances. This will shelter this coffee residue on your teeth from the mouth’s natural cleaning process, which will increase your likelihood of developing dental stains.

How Can I Drink Coffee While Wearing Invisalign?

Luckily, Invisalign treatment does not mean you have to forgo your favorite beverage in the morning. Whenever you drink coffee, be sure to do so only after removing your clear aligners, and it’s best to enjoy it alongside a tall glass of water to help wash it away from your enamel as you drink it. You’ll also need to brush and floss thoroughly before you put your aligners back in to eliminate any residue from the surfaces of your teeth and prevent stains and tooth decay.

Since you’ll have to wear your aligners for at least twenty hours a day to keep your treatment on track, you may have to drink coffee less frequently. The best beverage for your teeth during Invisalign treatment and in any other case will always be water since it is free from sugars, acids, and dyes that can harm your teeth. Feel free to enjoy water at any time without removing your aligners.

Coffee can be a delightful way to perk up in the morning for a busy day ahead. By being smart about when you enjoy this beverage and maintaining excellent oral hygiene, you can safely drink your java without developing unsightly dental stains or destructive tooth decay.

About the Practice

Dr. Ukti Phadnis earned her dental degree at the UConn School of Dental Medicine and stays abreast of the latest developments in her field by participating in continuing education coursework. Areas of expertise include general, restorative, cosmetic, and emergency dentistry as well as Invisalign. To learn more about keeping your teeth healthy while wearing Invisalign, contact her practice online.