Drinking iced coffee with braces is a highly debated topic with strong opinions on either side. Whether you think it’s a great idea or not, there is no denying that iced coffee is growing in popularity. As such, it’s important to know if this type of beverage is good or bad for braces wearers.
The good news is that iced coffee is generally safe for those with braces. In fact, orthodontists recommend that wearers include cold drinks in their diets. Cold caffeine-free beverages help to reduce inflammation caused by braces and provide hydration. Regular cold drinks also help to prevent plaque buildup, which can lead to cavities if left unchecked.
This doesn’t mean that you should abandon all caution, however. It’s important to remember that while iced coffee may be safe to drink, it can still damage your braces in a couple of ways. The main way that iced coffee can lead to damage is through the added sugar it often contains. The sugar can cause decay to form around the brackets of your braces and can also contribute to tooth decay as a whole.
Another way that iced coffee can damage your braces is through direct contact. If you’re drinking iced coffee too often or too fast, there’s a good chance that some of the beverage will end up getting on the braces. This can cause the metal parts of the braces to corrode, which can lead to premature failure.
The best way to avoid these problems is to limit the amount of iced coffee that you drink. Orthodontists recommend that any caffeinated or sugary beverage be enjoyed only in moderation. Drinking iced coffee every once in a while won’t cause any major damage, but it’s important to use caution if you drink it more often.
How Much Iced Coffee Should You Drink?
The question of how much iced coffee you should drink comes down to the frequency of your consumption. Orthodontists recommend that if you’re going to enjoy iced coffee on a regular basis, you shouldn’t have more than one serving per day. This should be in addition to other caffeinated and sugary drinks and not instead of them.
It’s also important to be aware of the type of iced coffee you’re drinking. Flavored coffee drinks in particular can be loaded with sugar, which can increase your chances of experiencing dental damage. It’s best to opt for regular, unsweetened coffee drinks as they will be much lower in sugar and calories.
Alternatives to Iced Coffee
If you’re concerned about the potential damage that iced coffee can do to your braces, there are a number of alternative beverages that you can enjoy. These drinks are much lower in sugar and still provide a refreshing break from water. Some great options include: smoothies, iced tea, diet sodas, and sugar-free juices.
It’s also important to make sure that you’re staying hydrated throughout the day. Orthodontists recommend that wearers drink at least 8 glasses of water per day in order to keep saliva production high and prevent plaque buildup. Water also helps to keep your mouth feeling refreshed and prevents the uncomfortable feeling of food getting stuck in your braces.
What About Coffee Shops?
If you visit a coffee shop on a regular basis, it’s important to be aware of the potential damage it can do to your braces. Most coffee shops use sugar and flavored syrups in their iced coffee drinks, which can increase your chances of experiencing dental damage. It’s best to opt for regular black iced coffee if you want to limit your chances of damage.
You should also make sure to avoid any type of chewy, crunchy, or sticky treats while you’re at the coffee shop. These types of foods can be very difficult to remove from your braces, which can cause damage to the metal and brackets. It’s also important to brush your teeth and rinse your mouth with water when you’re finished, as this will help to remove any lingering food or beverage that may have gotten stuck in your braces.
Are There Any Benefits to Drinking Iced Coffee With Braces?
There are a few potential benefits to drinking iced coffee with braces. Drinking a caffeinated beverage can help to reduce inflammation in the mouth, which can help to relieve some of the soreness associated with braces. The cold temperature of the drink can also help to reduce the discomfort of having your brackets tightened.
Iced coffee can also be beneficial in another way. Many people find that having a cold beverage while they’re wearing braces helps to take their mind off of the discomfort. This can be especially helpful when you’ve just had your braces tightened and your mouth is feeling particularly sore.
The Bottom Line
Drinking iced coffee with braces is generally safe for most people, as long as it’s consumed in moderation and without added sugar. However, it’s still important to be aware of the potential damage it can cause. Make sure to opt for regular, unsweetened coffee drinks and limit your intake to one drink per day. It’s also important to be aware of the type of food and beverages you’re consuming at coffee shops, as this can further increase your chances of dental damage.
Tips for Staying Hydrated With Braces
Staying hydrated is essential when you’re wearing braces. Not only will it help to reduce inflammation and prevent plaque buildup, but it will also ensure that your mouth is as healthy as possible. Here are a few tips to help you stay hydrated:
- Drink water throughout the day and avoid sugary drinks and juices.
- Carry a water bottle with you at all times and make sure to take regular sips.
- If possible, try to drink fluids with meals to help ensure that you’re getting enough water.
- Include cold drinks in your diet, as cold beverages help to reduce inflammation.
- Opt for unsweetened beverages and limit your intake of caffeinated and sugary drinks.
Myths About Drinking Iced Coffee With Braces
There are a few myths about drinking iced coffee with braces that are worth noting. For starters, some people believe that iced coffee will cause their braces to fall off faster. This isn’t true. In fact, drinking iced coffee in moderation is generally safe for those with braces.
Another myth is that iced coffee will stain your teeth. This isn’t true either. In fact, regular brushing and flossing is more than enough to keep your teeth looking their best.
Finally, some people believe that iced coffee is bad for your health. This isn’t necessarily true either. While sugary iced coffee drinks can be bad for your teeth, unsweetened versions are generally safe for most people.
