Can You Drink Alcohol with Braces or Aligners?
A social drink or a celebratory toast shouldn't get in the way of your smile journey. But if you’re wearing braces or clear aligners, you might be wondering:
Can I drink alcohol without risking my treatment? The short answer: Yes, but with precautions. At NewSmile, we know that life doesn't stop when orthodontic treatment starts. So here’s what you need to know about drinking with braces or aligners—from what’s safe, what stains, and how to protect your progress.
🍷 Is It Safe to Drink Alcohol with Clear Aligners or Braces?
With Clear Aligners (like NewSmile):
- Remove them before drinking. Alcohol—especially sugary or acidic drinks—can get trapped under the trays and damage teeth.
- Hot or dark-colored alcohol can stain or warp your aligners.
With Braces:
- You can drink, but avoid beverages that are too acidic or sugary without rinsing after.
- Alcohol doesn’t harm the brackets directly, but the sugars and dyes in cocktails can.
So yes, you can enjoy a drink—but do it mindfully.
🍹 What Alcoholic Drinks Stain (and Which Ones Are Safer)?
Here’s a quick guide on what to sip or skip while protecting your smile.
Drinks That Can Stain:
- Red wine
- Dark beers (stout, porter)
- Colored cocktails (think cranberry, blue curaçao, sangria)
- Coffee liqueurs
Aligner-Friendly Choices (with caution):
- Clear spirits (vodka, gin, tequila)
- Light beers or champagne
- White wine (low acidity is best)
- Hard seltzers (watch sugar content)
Tip: Use a straw for braces to reduce contact with your teeth, and always remove your aligners before drinking anything besides water.
💧 Hydration Tips While Drinking with Braces or Aligners
Alcohol can dry out your mouth, which increases the risk of bacteria buildup—especially under aligners or around brackets.
Stay fresh with these tips:
- Alternate alcohol with water to stay hydrated and rinse sugars away.
- Carry your aligner case so you can remove trays safely when drinking.
- Brush or rinse after drinking before putting aligners back in.
- Limit sugary mixers that stick to aligners and teeth.
Hydration is key to keeping your trays clear and your oral health in check.
🦷 How NewSmile Makes Social Smiles Easier
Whether it’s a wedding toast or a weekend brunch, NewSmile clear aligners are designed for real-life flexibility. You get:
- Removable trays that fit your schedule
- Low-maintenance care so you can enjoy your lifestyle
- Affordable, dentist-directed treatment you can trust
- At-home convenience from ordering to straightening
Explore your aligner options today at NewSmile and discover how easy it is to achieve your dream smile—without sacrificing your social life.
Conclusion:
So, can you drink alcohol with braces or clear aligners? Yes—but do it wisely. Avoid stains, stay hydrated, and clean up after. With a little planning, you can keep your treatment on track and enjoy your nights out.
At NewSmile, we make smile care flexible, so you don’t have to hit pause on the things you love.
