{"id":361,"date":"2026-03-07T19:45:33","date_gmt":"2026-03-07T19:45:33","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.gannettdrivedental.com\/blog\/?p=361"},"modified":"2026-03-14T19:49:11","modified_gmt":"2026-03-14T19:49:11","slug":"caffeine-caper-can-i-drink-coffee-with-invisalign","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.gannettdrivedental.com\/blog\/caffeine-caper-can-i-drink-coffee-with-invisalign\/","title":{"rendered":"Caffeine Caper: Can I Drink Coffee with Invisalign?"},"content":{"rendered":"
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If you\u2019re like an estimated 65% to 70% of U.S. Americans, you enjoy having at least one cup of coffee each day. Whether you prefer yours black or sweetened with cream and sugar, this beany beverage contains plenty of caffeine to help wake you up in the morning or carry you through the afternoon slump at work.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

But if you are currently undergoing treatment with Invisalign<\/a>, it\u2019s natural to wonder whether it\u2019s safe to enjoy your cup of joe with your trays inserted. Continue reading to learn more about why it\u2019s not usually recommended!<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

How Does Invisalign Work?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Unlike traditional braces, which utilize sharp metallic brackets and wires, this clear alternative uses transparent plastic trays that fit snugly over your teeth to exert gentle but consistent pressure to shift them. You must wear your aligners for 20 to 22 hours daily to prevent potential relapse, and then after a week or two, you\u2019ll be directed to switch to the next pair in your series.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Many patients complete this service in 12 to 18 months, which can be faster than the 24+ months it often takes to finish standard orthodontics. Plus, the smooth, clear trays are considered more comfortable and <\/em>discreet.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Can I Drink Coffee with Invisalign?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

One of the many reasons Invisalign continues to gain popularity is because there are no dietary restrictions. The trays, which are only meant to last a week or two, aren\u2019t usually durable enough to withstand the pressure of biting and chewing. Instead, they\u2019re meant to be removed for meals, meaning that all your favorite foods are still on the menu.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

But the caveat is that you must take your trays out to eat or drink anything other than cool or room-temperature water. Overly hot options, like a fresh cup of coffee, can warp the material, so your aligners no longer fit or function correctly. Furthermore, this popular beverage contains tannins, which are darkly pigmented particles that can cling to the surfaces of your trays and teeth, leaving them looking dark or dirty.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How Should I Clean My Trays?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

If your trays are exposed to deeply toned foods and drinks, including coffee and tea, they can become discolored, which defeats the purpose of \u2018invisible\u2019 orthodontic treatment. Thankfully, there are several ways you can help keep your aligners looking clean and clear, such as:<\/p>\n\n\n\n