Can I Still Drink Coffee with Invisalign?

Starting Invisalign treatment doesn’t mean you have to give up everything you love—yes, that includes your morning coffee. However, if you’re a daily coffee drinker, there are a few important things to know to keep your treatment on track and your aligners in great shape.

Why You Should Always Remove Your Aligners First

While it might seem harmless to sip coffee with your aligners in, it can actually cause some serious problems. Invisalign trays are made from clear, BPA-free plastic that is not designed to withstand heat. Hot coffee can warp the plastic, compromising how the aligners fit and ultimately affecting your treatment progress.

In addition to heat damage, coffee is known to discolor teeth. Drinking it with your aligners in can lead to discoloration of the trays, making them more noticeable and potentially leaving stains on your teeth as well.

Removing your aligners before drinking coffee is the best way to avoid both issues and ensure your smile stays on track and pearly white.

Coffee Can Still Be Part of Your Routine

The good news? You don’t have to give up coffee—you just need to be mindful about when and how you drink it.

Here are some simple tips:

• Take your aligners out before you drink. Even iced coffee can cause staining and sugar buildup.
• Stick to drinking coffee during meals. This way, you’re not constantly removing and reinserting your aligners throughout the day.
• Keep a case with you. That way, you have a clean place to store your aligners while enjoying your drink.
• Brush or rinse afterward. If brushing isn’t possible, rinse your mouth with water before putting your aligners back in to prevent residue buildup.

Timing Matters

Invisalign trays need to be worn for 20 to 22 hours per day to be effective. That means you should plan your coffee breaks carefully. Lingering over multiple cups throughout the day could reduce your wear time and delay your results.

Try consolidating your coffee intake into a short window—perhaps during breakfast or lunch—so you can still meet your daily wear goals without missing your caffeine fix.

Watch the Sugar and Cream

If you take your coffee with cream and sugar, there’s another reason to brush or rinse before putting your aligners back in. Sugar and acidic beverages can get trapped between your teeth and the trays, increasing your risk of cavities or enamel erosion. Keeping your mouth clean after drinking sweetened or flavored coffee helps protect your teeth during treatment.

A Little Planning Goes a Long Way

Coffee lovers can absolutely succeed with Invisalign—it just takes a little more awareness. By removing your aligners before sipping, staying on top of your oral hygiene, and wearing your trays for the recommended time each day, you can enjoy your favorite beverage without compromising your treatment.

Being smart about coffee means you can enjoy the journey to a straighter smile and your daily brew.

About the Practice

At Orange Place Family Dentistry, patients of all ages receive high-quality, customized dental care in a welcoming environment. Dr. Koops and Dr. Mollica provide expert Invisalign treatment tailored to your unique needs and lifestyle.

Call us at (216) 464-2448 or request an appointment online.