Ask Dr Toof

When Can I Drink Coffee With Braces?

LAST UPDATED:

October 9, 2025

Category:

Q:

Hi Dr. Toof, I’m a mother of a 17-year-old who just got braces, and we’re both curious about when it’s safe for her to drink coffee again. I know that coffee can stain teeth, and I’m worried it might affect her braces or her smile when she finally gets them off. She absolutely loves her morning coffee with me, and I want to make sure we’re taking the right steps for her dental health. Can you please let us know when it’s okay for her to sip on her favourite drink without worrying about her braces? Thanks for your help!

- Our follower on social media

Hello there! Thanks for reaching out with such a thoughtful question. Let’s dive into how coffee can affect those brand-new braces. Coffee is notorious for staining teeth, and when braces are in the mix, it can be a bit trickier. The brackets on braces have a tendency to trap liquids like coffee, which might lead to stains that become noticeable once the braces come off. So, it’s good to be cautious about coffee consumption right now.

Now, a safe bet is to wait a few months before introducing coffee back into your daughter’s routine. This waiting period allows her teeth some time to adjust to the braces. Think of it as letting the new setup settle in, minimizing the risk of developing unwanted stains right from the start.

However, if your daughter just can’t resist the allure of her coffee dates with you, there are some quick fixes to make it work! You can encourage her to drink it through a straw. This way, the coffee will have less contact with her teeth and braces. Additionally, make sure she rinses her mouth with water afterward to wash away any leftover residue. These small steps can make a big difference.

For long-term care, it’s vital to stick to a good dental routine. Using a mouth rinse made especially for people with braces and a gentle, stain-preventive toothpaste can help maintain her bright smile. Brushing after every meal can also keep her teeth and braces spotless and reduce any chance of staining.

Lastly, don’t forget the importance of regular visits to her orthodontist. These check-ups are crucial. Her orthodontist can provide personalized advice about her diet and offer professional cleanings to keep everything in check. This way, her smile will stay healthy and stain-free, making sure she gets the best results once those braces come off!

About The Author

MDC 11249

Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS) Jordan University of Science and Technology, 2018

Dr. Athirah is a highly skilled and dedicated dentist with a special focus on dental surgery and endodontics. She co-founded Dr Toof Dental Clinic to stay at the forefront of modern dentistry.

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