Having a retainer isn't all bad – there are some advantages. For one, they help retain the beautiful smile that you've worked so hard to create. But, they also come with certain limitations. One of the most common questions people ask is whether they can drink coffee while wearing a retainer.
The answer isn't so straightforward. It really depends on what type of retainer you're wearing and whether or not it's bonded to your teeth. If you have a clear acrylic retainer or one that's bonded to your teeth, then you can drink coffee and other beverages with it. But if you wear a wire retainer, it's best to avoid coffee – or any beverages with a strong pigment – as it may stain the retainer.
Dr. John Chambers, an orthodontic specialist, says that drinking coffee with a retainer can't do any harm to your smile. “But,” he adds, “it's important to keep in mind that some foods and drinks can have an impact on the retainer itself.”
It's important to follow the maintenance instructions that come with your retainer. Most retainers should be removed while eating and drinking, and they should be cleaned daily with a soft toothbrush and toothpaste. It's also important to avoid sugary beverages, as these can cause plaque buildup and affect the way the retainer fits your mouth.
If you're still unsure about drinking coffee with your retainer, it's best to ask your orthodontist for advice. Your orthodontist can tell you whether your retainer is suitable for drinking coffee, and provide you with instructions on how to maintain it properly.
It Can Stain Your Teeth
Coffee has a high concentration of caffeine and a strong pigment, which means that it can stain the retainer and your teeth if it's not cleaned off properly. Regular cleaning of your retainers and teeth is important to maintain the health of your smile, regardless of whether you're drinking coffee or not.
It's also important to note that drinking coffee with a retainer can contribute to discoloration of your teeth, as coffee is known to stain teeth. If you're a regular coffee drinker, then it's best to speak to your orthodontist and discuss other preventive options.
Your orthodontist may recommend special toothpastes designed for teeth with braces, or even a fluoride mouthwash if you're prone to discoloration. To reduce coffee staining, you should also drink coffee through a straw, and try to brush your teeth and retainer regularly.
Can You Wear A Retainer Full Time?
Wearing a retainer full time – 24 hours a day, seven days a week, is not recommended. Retainers can be uncomfortable to wear and they should be taken out before eating, drinking, or engaging in any contact sports.
It's also important to give your mouth a rest. According to the American Association of Orthodontists, it's recommended that retainers be worn for at least 22 hours a day for the first six months, then at least 18 hours a day for the following six months. After 12 months, it's recommended to wear the retainer only when necessary.
Your orthodontist can provide you with instructions on how to care for your retainer and how often it should be worn. It's important to follow these instructions closely, as it's essential to keep your teeth and gums health and retain the results achieved with your orthodontic treatment.
Retainer Maintenance
Proper maintenance of your retainer is key to keeping it in good condition and to preventing staining or discoloration of your teeth. It's important to clean your retainer with a soft toothbrush and toothpaste every time you take it out of your mouth.
You should also use a retainer cleaner to kill any bacteria that may have built up on it. If you notice any discoloration or staining on your retainer or teeth, then it's best to contact your orthodontist for advice.
It's also important to keep your retainer in a safe place when it's not in your mouth. Investing in a special case for your retainer will help keep it safe from dirt and bacteria.
Other Beverages To Avoid
Coffee isn't the only beverage that should be avoided when wearing a retainer. Beverages with a high concentration of color – such as red wine, dark sodas, and tea – should also be avoided as they can stain your retainer and teeth.
It's best to stick to clear or light-colored beverages. Water is always a safe bet, as it won't stain your retainer or teeth. If you do drink other beverages, it's important to rinse your mouth with water afterward and to brush your teeth and retainer regularly to prevent staining.
Relieving Discomfort
It's common to experience some discomfort when wearing a retainer, especially in the first few weeks. Taking it out while eating and drinking can help to relieve the discomfort and make it easier to wear the retainer for extended periods of time.
Your orthodontist can provide you with tips and advice on how to keep your retainer comfortable. In some cases, they may recommend using an over-the-counter pain reliever – such as ibuprofen – to relieve discomfort.
It's also important to follow your orthodontist's instructions regarding adjustments to the retainer. Your orthodontist may recommend that you wear your retainer for a few hours each day at first, then gradually increase the amount of time you're wearing it until you're wearing it for the recommended amount of time.
The Final Say
Drinking coffee with a retainer can be difficult, but it's not impossible. It's important to speak to your orthodontist for advice and to follow their instructions closely.
Regular cleaning of the retainer and your teeth is important to maintain the health of your smile and to prevent staining or discoloration. And it's important to give your mouth a rest by wearing the retainer for the recommended amount of time.
Ultimately, it's best to stick to clear or light-colored beverages when wearing a retainer and to brush your teeth and retainer after each meal and snack to keep them clean and free from staining and discoloration.
