Can I Still Drink Coffee While Wearing Invisalign?

woman smiling and drinking coffee in Richardson

Have you already started or are you getting ready to undergo Invisalign? Depending on your treatment, you might be able to finish in about 18 months, and then you’ll be able to enjoy your newly straightened smile! However, the process can become difficult if you’re a coffee lover. Read on to learn why you shouldn’t drink a cup of joe while wearing Invisalign and ways you can work around it.

3 Reasons NOT to Drink Coffee While Wearing Invisalign

A rule of thumb for Invisalign is to never drink or eat anything (except for unflavored water) while wearing your trays. Here are several reasons to avoid coffee:

  • Warped trays: Coffee is often served warm or hot. Since the Invisalign aligners are made of heat-sensitive materials, drinking a cup of joe can warp or damage your trays. This can lead to complications and interruptions in your treatment process.
  • Stains and discoloration: Other than water, any beverage can cause your clear aligners to develop stains or discolor over time. This will take away from the discreet procedure Invisalign is designed for. Additionally, liquids can become stuck between your teeth and trays, making your smile vulnerable to discoloration as well.
  • Heightened risk of decay: Not only is coffee usually prepared with sugar and cream, but it’s also acidic. If it gets trapped underneath your clear aligners, it can increase your risk of tooth decay in the long run.

Are There Ways to Still Enjoy Coffee with Invisalign?

While you should avoid drinking coffee with Invisalign on, you can still enjoy it after a few minor adjustments! Firstly, always remember to remove and store your aligners before downing your morning cup of joe. This, in addition to drinking it quickly rather than sipping it for hours, can significantly reduce your chances of Invisalign damage. You can also decrease or eliminate sugar and cream to lessen the risk of cavities or bacteria growth on your teeth and trays. Lastly, make sure to brush or rinse your smile and aligners after finishing your coffee.

By practicing these few tips, you shouldn’t have any problems enjoying your favorite drink during your Invisalign treatment. And if you have any concerns along the way, feel free to speak with your dentist for more advice!

About the Author

Dr. Ellis Shwarts earned his dental doctorate from the University of Texas Health Science Center in San Antonio. He is passionate about providing comprehensive, high-quality, and modern dental care for his patients. He offers a multitude of advanced treatments, including Invisalign, to help you achieve and maintain your best smile. If you’d like to know more about how to care for your Invisalign trays, visit his website or call 972-525-9283.