Many patients want straighter smiles but prefer to avoid the hassle associated with getting traditional braces. If you’re seeking a more discreet and comfortable way to reposition your teeth, you might be a good candidate for Invisalign.
This treatment relies on clear plastic trays that fit snugly over your arches to gently shift them instead of utilizing sharp-ended metallic brackets and wires. However, many patients have questions about dietary restrictions, like whether they can drink coffee with their clear aligners inserted. If you’re curious, continue reading to learn more about why it’s not usually recommended!
How Does Invisalign Work?
Invisalign continues to gain popularity as a clear alternative to standard orthodontics because it’s much less invasive. Instead of having brackets attached to your enamel that are threaded with an archwire, this method utilizes transparent trays that exert enough pressure to reposition your teeth.
However, you must wear them for 20 to 22 hours daily to prevent them from returning to their previous places. Then, after a week or two, you’ll be provided with the next trays in your series to account for the ongoing movement of your smile.
Even with this stipulation, this option is considered less invasive because it doesn’t impact your daily routines as much as braces do. For instance, you can take the aligners out to brush them, which allows you to maintain your dental health more easily. They’re also not intended to be worn during meals, meaning there are no dietary restrictions.
Can I Drink Coffee with Invisalign?
Some patients assume that, because there isn’t a list of foods to avoid, it’s safe to drink coffee with their aligners inserted. But, unfortunately, you might quickly come to regret it if you try.
Firstly, coffee contains tannins, which are naturally occurring compounds found in some plants that give them their bitter flavor. They also bind to proteins and other particles in your mouth, allowing them to cling to the surfaces of your Invisalign. This, in turn, leaves the trays looking dark and dirty, which defeats the purpose of ‘invisible’ orthodontics.
Furthermore, overly hot temperatures can warp the plastic material so it no longer fits correctly. Your provider might need to order a new set, or you might have to repeat previous trays, potentially adding weeks to your overall treatment timeline.
How Can I Keep My Invisalign Clean?
You can help keep your orthodontics clean and clear by removing them twice daily to gently scrub them with a soft-bristle toothbrush and mild dish soap or non-abrasive toothpaste. You can also soak them in a glass of water with special Invisalign cleaning crystals for 15 minutes every day to help eradicate germs while maintaining their shape.
If you have additional questions about best methods for maintaining your Invisalign, you can learn more by consulting your dentist!
Meet the Author
Dr. Caleb Goodman strives to provide patients with a stress-free, spa-like dental experience to help them feel comfortable while improving their smiles. He earned his Doctor of Dental Medicine from Midwestern University and today offers a full range of services, including Invisalign, to meet all your needs conveniently under one roof. You can request an appointment on the website or by calling (623) 925-8822.