If you’re straightening your teeth with SureSmile clear aligners, you’re already on your way to a more confident, healthy smile. These transparent trays are comfortable, removable, and nearly invisible, making them a convenient alternative to traditional braces. But if you’re a coffee lover, you may be wondering: can you still enjoy your favorite cup of coffee during treatment?
The short answer is yes — you can still drink coffee with SureSmile, but there are some important guidelines to follow. Here’s what you need to know to protect both your aligners and your smile.
Why You Shouldn’t Drink Coffee with Aligners In
It might be tempting to sip coffee while wearing your SureSmile trays, especially if you’re in a rush or at work. However, dentists strongly recommend removing your aligners before drinking anything other than plain water.
Here’s why:
- Staining: Coffee is one of the most common culprits behind tooth and aligner discoloration. If you drink it while wearing your trays, the liquid can seep between your teeth and aligners, leaving behind yellow or brown stains. Over time, this can make your once-clear aligners appear cloudy or tinted.
- Warping: Hot beverages like coffee can distort or warp your aligners, since they’re made of thermoplastic material. Even mild heat can change their shape, causing poor fit and reducing treatment effectiveness.
- Trapped Sugars and Acids: If your coffee contains sugar, cream, or flavoring, it can create an acidic, sticky environment between your aligners and teeth — a perfect recipe for tooth decay and enamel erosion.
For these reasons, it’s best to always remove your aligners before drinking coffee, rinse your mouth afterward, and reinsert them only when your teeth are clean and dry.
How to Enjoy Coffee Safely During SureSmile Treatment
You don’t have to give up your daily coffee routine — just adjust a few habits to keep your aligners clear and your teeth healthy.
Remove Your Aligners First
Before drinking coffee, take out your aligners and store them in their protective case to avoid accidental damage or loss.
Use a Straw When Possible
Drinking through a straw helps minimize contact between coffee and your teeth, reducing the risk of staining.
Drink Quickly Instead of Sipping All Day
The longer coffee sits on your teeth, the more chance it has to stain and erode enamel. Try to enjoy your coffee in one sitting rather than nursing it for hours.
Rinse or Brush Afterward
After finishing your coffee, rinse your mouth with water or brush your teeth before putting your aligners back in. This prevents bacteria buildup and discoloration.
Stay Hydrated
Coffee can dry out your mouth, reducing saliva production, which naturally protects your teeth. Drinking plenty of water throughout the day helps maintain healthy oral moisture levels.
Yes, you can still drink coffee while wearing SureSmile aligners, but it’s essential to do it the right way. Always remove your trays, rinse afterward, and maintain good oral hygiene to keep your aligners clear and your smile bright.
About the Practice
Leave crooked teeth in the past with SureSmile clear aligners! Our team here at Jupiter Implant and Cosmetic Dentistry would love to outfit you with a prosthesis to straighten your smile. Drs. Shane and Amiee Vaughn are trusted members of the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, ensuring you’ll get the best treatment possible. Also, we accept and maximize the benefits of all dental insurance so you’re not worried about costs. Ready to get started on your journey to a healthier, straighter smile? Schedule an appointment online or call (561) 559-8942.