Coffee is seen as both a comforting drink and a healthy way to start the day. But can you drink it if you’re using a Smile Direct® appliance to straighten your teeth? What do the experts say about the safety of using Smile Direct and drinking coffee together? Is it really possible to keep your teeth healthy and enjoy a cup of coffee?
Experts agree that those using Smile Direct products to straighten their teeth can still safely consume coffee—provided they take the right steps to protect their teeth.
According to the American Dental Association, coffee is acidic and can increase the risk of staining and erosion of the enamel of the teeth. In order to minimize the risk, they suggest brushing your teeth with a good quality fluoride toothpaste twice daily, as well as flossing regularly. They further advise limiting coffee intake to one or two cups per day.
Dr. William Wilford, DDS, of Faze Dental, explains that using a Smile Direct appliance can actually help to prevent the staining and erosion that can occur from drinking coffee, as the appliance sits on the teeth and helps to protect them from the acidity of the drink.
Dr. Wilford further recommends that when wearing a Smile Direct appliance, patients should avoid drinking coffee through a straw, as this can cause the liquid to bypass the appliance and come into contact with the teeth directly. He also advises that after drinking coffee, patients should consider swishing with water to help rinse away the acidic liquid.
But is it really possible to keep your teeth healthy and still enjoy a cup of joe? According to Dr. Wilford, the answer is a resounding yes. He explains that as long as patients limit their coffee intake and practice good oral hygiene, they can still safely enjoy the occasional cup of coffee.
Alternatives to Coffee
For those wishing to enjoy the benefits of coffee without the potential risks to their Smile Direct appliance, there are a number of alternatives available.
Dr. Wilford suggests trying other hot drinks such as herbal teas, which not only offer the same comforting feeling that coffee does, but also contain health benefits. He further suggests adding a touch of honey or a bit of sugar to help further enhance the taste and make the drink more enjoyable.
Alternatively, those looking for a more robust flavor might find that decaf coffee provides a good compromise. Decaf coffee still contains the same antioxidants and other health benefits of regular coffee, but without the staining and erosion risks associated with consuming large quantities of the caffeinated beverage.
For those looking for an even healthier option, Dr. Wilford suggests green tea, which comes with a number of health benefits and has been shown to help reduce the risk of certain chronic diseases.
Maintaining Good Oral Hygiene
Regardless of whether you choose to drink coffee or not, experts agree that good oral hygiene is key for those using Smile Direct appliances.
Dr. Wilford recommends brushing your teeth after every meal or snack to help keep them clean. He also suggests flossing daily to help remove food particles and plaque from in between the teeth and along the gum line.
Finally, it is important to visit your dentist at least every six months for a professional cleaning and checkup. This will help ensure that your Smile Direct appliance remains in good condition and that your teeth and gums stay healthy.
Dietary Considerations
Coffee is only one of many dietary considerations that those wearing a Smile Direct appliance must take into account. It is important to remember that diet plays a big role in the health of your teeth, and it should be taken very seriously.
Dr. Wilford suggests limiting acidic and sugary foods such as lemons, apples, candies, and sodas, as these can increase the risk of staining and erosion of the enamel on the teeth. He further recommends avoiding sticky foods such as candy and gum, as these can become stuck in between the teeth and be difficult to remove.
Finally, Dr. Wilford suggests increasing the amount of calcium-rich foods such as dairy products and leafy greens. Calcium helps to keep the bones and teeth strong and healthy, and it is especially important for those wearing orthodontic appliances.
Discoloration of Teeth
Finally, it is important to note that coffee can cause discoloration of the teeth. To minimize the risk of discoloration, Dr. Wilford suggests brushing your teeth immediately after drinking coffee and avoiding drinks with high sugar content.
He further recommends using a whitening toothpaste, as this can help to remove any existing staining and diminish the discoloration that coffee can cause. For those looking for a more drastic option, Dr. Wilford suggests visiting your dentist for teeth whitening treatments.
For those wearing a Smile Direct appliance, it is especially important to pay attention to the color of your teeth. As the appliance is attached to the teeth, it can make existing discoloration become more pronounced and create a less-than-desirable appearance.
Conclusion
In conclusion, it is possible to drink coffee while using a Smile Direct appliance. However, it is important to take the necessary precautions to ensure that your teeth are protected from the acidity of the drink. Experts suggest brushing your teeth twice daily, flossing regularly, avoiding drinking through a straw, and limiting coffee intake to one to two cups per day. Additionally, it is important to maintain good oral hygiene and pay attention to the dietary considerations associated with using a Smile Direct appliance.
