Need Essix questions answered please

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#1 Post by **pokergirl** » Mon Feb 09, 2009 3:58 pm

Hi everyone!

I've been debraced for 9 months and I've been in a postioner since then. I just received my Essix for my top teeth today. I have a bonded lower. They gave me a thin Essix to wear during the day and a thicker one to wear at night. Has anyone else had two different sizes? Also, I was told to take it out to eat and drink. I can understand while eating but drinking too? Will it really mess it up if I drink a Diet Coke or iced tea? That's going to be a pain.

#2 Post by **TheShmo** » Tue Feb 10, 2009 12:41 am

Hi

I had an Essix the first time I was braced, and the issue with drinking is mostly staining (especially cola and tea)... I'm a Dr. Pepper
addict and mine stained HORRIBLY... the other issue is hot beverages can deform the retainer.

So yes, I'd say to take it out unless you are only drinking water.
Hope this helps

#3 Post by **Andromeda** » Thu Feb 12, 2009 9:26 am

I think another worry about the Essix and drinking is that the retainer can sort of trap a little of the liquid under it against your teeth. Normally your saliva and tounge will clean most of it off but if you are drinking something like a soda then all the sugar and stuff that can harm your teeth can get in there and just eat away at your enamel. Thats why it's ok to drink water because theres nothing in water that could hurt your teeth. If you do drink something with your retainer in the I'd at least take it out and swish with water when you're done.

#4 Post by **pokergirl** » Thu Feb 12, 2009 10:01 pm

Thanks for your replies. I wasn't even thinking about it getting stained. It's kind of a pain since Diet Coke is like a security blanket to me. I guess I'll be changing one bad habit then and start drinking more water.

#5 Post by **Clairey Fairey** » Sat Feb 21, 2009 11:21 am

Never tried drinking with an Essix in...the idea freaks me out!!