Can I Drink Coffee with Invisalign?

Can I Drink Coffee with Invisalign?

Do you love coffee? Do you wear Invisalign aligners? If your answer to both questions is yes, you might be wondering whether your coffee habit will interfere with your aligners. Can you still enjoy your cup of joe with Invisalign?

What Is Invisalign?

Invisalign aligners are a form of orthodontic treatment meant to straighten teeth without the need for traditional metal braces. The custom-made, clear braces cover your teeth. Over time, they gently pull your teeth into their proper position. Since they are clear, they are less noticeable than traditional braces. Furthermore, you can take them on and off when necessary. 

Many people do not like metal braces even if they are quite effective at straightening misaligned teeth. With Invisalign, you do not need to worry about metal wire or brackets, which can detract from your smile. Invisalign trays are comfortable and look good. They can also align your teeth in half the time it would take with traditional metal braces. 

Are you an adult considering orthodontic treatment or a parent exploring treatment for your teenager? If so, you should consider Invisalign as a discreet and effective treatment option. You can easily remove them at mealtime, which means that you can still enjoy the foods and drinks you love. However, you should still avoid sweet treats.

Food Restrictions

One of the questions most patients ask about various orthodontic treatments is whether they come with food or drink restrictions. With traditional metal braces, there is a surprisingly long list of restrictions. But for these aligners, the answer is easy: There are no restrictions if you remove them before you eat or drink. 

The freedom to drink and eat whatever you want is one of their best advantages. People who use Invisalign love that they can still enjoy their favorite drinks and foods while still straightening their teeth. But when it comes to drinking and eating with Invisalign aligners, you need to remember to remove them from your mouth before eating and drinking.

Can You Still Enjoy Your Coffee While Wearing Invisalign Trays?

The answer to this question is no. You should avoid drinking coffee while wearing your aligners. You should only drink purified bottled water or tap water while wearing them. Some of the reasons for this include:

Teeth Discoloration and Stains

Drinking coffee or any other type of beverage other than water while wearing Invisalign trays could lead to discoloration or staining. This will make them more visible on your teeth. Also, your teeth may be more prone to discoloration. When you drink coffee while wearing them, some of it will lodge between your teeth and the aligners, leading to staining. 

Increased Risk of Tooth Decay

You need to understand that coffee is acidic, especially if it has a lot of sugar and cream. This is due to the sugary and acidic liquid trapped between your teeth and trays. Consequently, drinking coffee while wearing your clear aligner trays can increase your risk of tooth decay.

Coffee May Warp Your Aligner Trays

Invisalign aligner trays are made of heat-sensitive plastic material. So any hot beverage, such as a hot cup of coffee, could warp and damage them, leading to complications with your treatment.  

For more on Invisalign, visit Progressive Dental & Associates at our office in Matteson, Illinois. You can call 708-980-0110 today to schedule an appointment.