Coffee with Invisalign Attachments?
It’s no secret that coffee is an integral part of many people’s day to day lives. As of 2018, 64% of Americans reported they drink coffee daily, consuming an average of 3.2 cups per day. So, when faced with the prospect of wearing Invisalign, with its attachments and plastic aligners, many people wonder whether they can still enjoy their daily cup of coffee.
Invisalign attachments are small plastic bumps, known as “buttons,” that are bonded to specific teeth in order to help guide the alignment of the teeth during the Invisalign treatment. Invisalign attachments vary in size and shape and can be used to help keep Invisalign aligners in place when necessary. They’re also designed to allow for easy adjustment of the teeth and can help the patient achieve a straighter, more aesthetically appealing smile.
But many people are worried that drinking coffee will cause their Invisalign attachments to become discolored or stained, which may hinder the effectiveness of the treatment. The good news is, according to studies conducted by the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, coffee and other dark liquids like tea and cola won’t have an adverse effect on Invisalign attachments. In fact, the AAOCD concluded that Invisalign attachments are incredibly resistant to staining and discoloration, meaning that it’s perfectly safe to drink coffee, tea, or cola with them.
However, it’s still important to practice proper oral hygiene when wearing Invisalign. Regular brushing, flossing, and rinsing will help maintain the whiteness and integrity of the Invisalign attachments. Additionally, the American Dental Association recommends using a toothpaste containing fluoride, which can help protect the teeth from staining and discoloration.
It’s also recommended that patients avoid drinking coffee or other dark liquids right before bed, as this can contribute to the staining of the teeth. Additionally, while coffee and other dark liquids won’t cause staining or discoloration to the Invisalign attachments, it can still be beneficial to limit consumption. Excessive consumption of coffee and other dark liquids can still contribute to the discoloration of the teeth, making it important to maintain moderation.
It’s also important to note that while Invisalign attachments are designed to resist staining, they are not designed to resist damage. Chewing or biting on the attachment can cause it to become dislodged or damaged and could potentially alter the course of the treatment.
Side Effects of Coffee
Although moderate consumption of coffee is safe for Invisalign patients, it’s important to be aware of the potential side effects of drinking too much of it. Excessive consumption of coffee can lead to dehydration, as well as various gastrointestinal problems. Additionally, drinking too much coffee can lead to an increased heart rate, difficulty sleeping, and can even affect the regularity of one’s menstrual cycle.
Furthermore, drinking too much coffee can increase the risk of developing certain types of cancer and can lead to poor oral health. Studies have shown that consuming more than four cups of coffee per day can contribute to a higher risk of developing oropharynx and esophageal cancer. Additionally, excessive consumption of coffee can contribute to stained teeth and lead to an increased risk of developing cavities.
Decaffeinated Coffee
For Invisalign patients who love their coffee, but want to avoid the potential side effects of excessive consumption, there is the option of decaf. Decaffeinated coffee still contains small amounts of caffeine and can still provide that energy boost without the risk of becoming overly dehydrated or having difficulty sleeping. Decaf coffee is also a safe option for those who want to happy to enjoy a cup of coffee without the risk of staining or discoloring their Invisalign attachments.
Coffee Alternatives
For those who still want that energy boost without the risks associated with drinking too much coffee, there are a variety of other beverages to choose from. Green tea and many herbal teas like chamomile, rooibos, or peppermint can provide a great alternative to coffee in terms of energy and health benefits. Additionally, matcha is also a great option. Matcha is derived from green tea leaves and contains more antioxidant and caffeine levels than regular green tea.
Takeaway
As previously mentioned, drinking coffee or other dark liquids with Invisalign attachments won’t cause staining or discoloration of the attachments. However, it is important to exercise moderation and practice proper oral hygiene in order to maintain the effectiveness of the Invisalign treatment. Additionally, those who enjoy coffee but want to avoid the potential side effects of excessive consumption can choose decaffeinated coffee or other alternatives like green tea or matcha.
