Starting your morning with a cup of hot coffee might be just what you need to prepare for the day ahead. If you are about to begin your Invisalign treatment, you may be wondering just how it’ll change your routine. Thankfully, you can still drink coffee during the time it takes to get straighter teeth! Although there will be a few new steps you’ll have to take to protect your clear aligners. Read on to learn more about why you can’t drink coffee while wearing Invisalign and ways you can still enjoy a hot cup of joe.
Why Shouldn’t I Drink Coffee While Wearing Invisalign?
You may have heard how you shouldn’t eat or drink anything while wearing Invisalign. The only exception is water, but why just H2O? That’s because drinking coffee with your clear aligners can have negative consequences like:
- Changing the shape of your aligners: The heat from a hot cup of liquid gold can cause the Invisalign trays to warp as they are made from plastic. This can affect their fit and cause delays in your treatment.
- Increased risk of tooth decay: Coffee is acidic, and many people tend to add sugar to the drink. When it gets trapped between your teeth and the aligners, your enamel is exposed to acid and sugar. Without cleaning them off, you are at a higher risk of cavities.
- Stains on the trays: Drinking anything besides water can lead to discoloration of your clear aligners, making them more noticeable. On top of that, the trays can trap coffee and stain your teeth as well.
How Can I Still Drink Coffee During Invisalign Treatment?
Fortunately, you don’t have to give up coffee during your orthodontic treatment! You just need to make a few changes to your morning routine! Here’s what you can do:
- Remove the aligners from your mouth before drinking anything besides water.
- Finish your coffee a little faster so you aren’t without your Invisalign trays for too long. Remember, it’s best to wear them for 20-22 hours a day.
- Brush or rinse your mouth when you are finished. Doing both will help ensure that the remaining coffee particles in your mouth get removed. Swishing water is still a great option if you don’t have a toothbrush handy.
- Reduce the amount of sweet additives you put in your coffee. That way, you reduce your risk of decay from cavity-causing bacteria.
The good news is that you can still enjoy coffee during your time with Invisalign. While you may need to take a few new steps, doing so will help ensure that your treatment goes smoothly. Then you can get your caffeine fix and enjoy a straighter smile!
About the Practice
At Windermere Dentistry, you are in the hands of three skilled dentists who work to meet your dental needs. With their expertise and state-of-the-art technology, we offer a wide variety of effective services, like Invisalign. The customized treatment plan will ensure that you’ll have a smile you’re proud of by the end! If you’re looking to straighten your teeth, schedule an appointment or call us at (407) 909-1099.