Drinking Coffee With Retainer? Top 6 Best Answers

When the braces are finally removed, the “retention phase” begins for most people. The goal of this phase is to ensure that the teeth do not fall back into their previous position. A retainer is used to maintain the improved position of the teeth. A retainer is a fixed or removable brace that has been individually fitted to the teeth by the orthodontist. Retainers are generally made of clear plastic and thin wires to optimize patient comfort.

Depending on the type of orthodontic treatment and the age of the patient, retainers are worn for different lengths of time. Persistence and dedication are required to make this final phase of treatment successful. If the retainer is not worn according to the orthodontist’s instructions, treatment may fail or take much longer than expected.

What types of retainers are there?

There are a variety of retainers; each is geared towards treating a different type of dental problem. dr Escarsega will make a retainer recommendation based on patient preference and comfort.

The following are some of the most common types of retainers:

Hawley Retainer – The Hawley retainer consists of a metal wire on an acrylic sheet. The metal wire can be adjusted regularly to ensure the teeth stay in the desired position. The acrylic arch is designed to comfortably fit the lingual walls or palate of the mouth.

Essix – The Essix retainer is the most commonly used vacuum formed retainer (VFR). A mold is first made of the teeth in their new alignment and then clear PVC splints are made to fit completely over the dental arch.

Fixed retainers – A fixed retainer is somewhat similar to a lingual brace in that it attaches to the lingual side of some teeth.

What do I have to consider when using a retainer?

There are a few basic things to keep in mind for proper use and maintenance of your retainer.

Don’t lose your device – Detachable mounts are very easy to lose. It is advisable to put the retainer in the case it came in when eating, drinking and brushing your teeth. Leaving a holder folded in a napkin in a restaurant or public restroom can be very expensive if lost as a replacement will need to be created. A colorful case serves as a great reminder.

Do not drink soda or alcohol while wearing a retainer – Due to the unobtrusive nature of the device, it is tempting to drink while wearing a retainer. However, excess fluid trapped under the splints can significantly increase the acid load on the teeth and increase the likelihood of tooth decay.

Don’t eat while wearing a retainer – Eating while wearing a removable retainer can be difficult and awkward, and it can also damage the device. Food can get caught around a Hawley retaining wire or under the roof of the mouth, causing bad breath. If VFR retainers are worn simultaneously on the upper and lower jaw, the teeth cannot meet. This means that chewing is almost impossible.

Clean retainers properly – Removable retainers can become a breeding ground for tartar and bacteria. It is important to thoroughly clean the inside and outside as often as possible. Hawley retainers can be cleaned with a toothbrush. Because sharp bristles can damage the PVC surface of a VFR, a denture cleaner or special retainer cleaner is recommended for this type of device.

Wear retainer as directed – This stage of treatment is critical. The hard work is done, the braces are off and now it’s tempting not to wear the retainer as often as the orthodontist recommends. Retainers are needed to give the muscles, tissues and bones time to stabilize the teeth in their new alignment. Failure to wear the retainer as directed can result in unfortunate consequences such as: B. the return of the teeth to their original position, additional costs and loss of time.

If you have any questions or concerns about retainers, please contact our office.

One of the many benefits of the Invisalign orthodontic treatment system is that the clear plastic trays used to reposition teeth can be removed at mealtimes. That means you can take them out to eat and drink the foods and drinks you’ve always enjoyed (although cutting back on sweet treats is always a healthy choice!). Tea and coffee are safe to consume during treatment with Invisalign clear braces, although you should avoid drinking these beverages while wearing the braces.

Although you don’t have to chew when drinking beverages, it’s important to remove the skins before consuming them. Especially with drinks like tea and coffee, which can stain teeth. If you drink coffee or tea while wearing your aligners.

You can remove your Invisalign splints to have coffee, tea, and other beverages, as well as to eat meals, but it’s important that you remember to put them back in to get the desired treatment results in the expected time frame. Your orthodontist will tell you how many hours the splints should be worn each day. It’s usually around 22 hours.

Your orthodontist will also advise you when to switch to a new splint. Invisalign moves teeth using a series of clear plastic splints that need to be replaced in a specific order. Being diligent about this aspect of your treatment will also help you get the smile you want.

This type of clear braces has other advantages besides the convenience of eating and drinking. They’re barely noticeable to onlookers, so they’re far less disruptive to your smile than traditional braces, even those with clear clasps.

Invisalign allows patients to eat and drink typical foods, including tea and coffee, although you must take care to do this properly to reduce the risk of tooth discoloration. Speak to our orthodontist for more details on this aspect of Invisalign, as well as general information about the treatment.

retention

When we remove your braces, we begin the retention phase of your treatment. Your ultimate orthodontic outcome depends on your retainers, so do the hard work you’ve put in so far.

Behaviour rules:

Please wear your retainers continuously for the first 8 weeks. That means you only take them with you to eat, brush and floss your teeth, swim, and play contact sports. You can wear them while drinking, but only if the drink isn’t hot. At the end of these 8 weeks, Dr. Ashcraft you see to adjust your retainers (they should be loose by then) and you can only wear them at night. Every time you brush your teeth, brush your retainers to freshen them up. In the event that your doctor prescribes antibiotics, you should add a few drops of bleach to a cup of water and soak your retainers in this solution for a minute. Then rinse your retainers with clear water and brush them as well. This process should be done daily until your antibiotic treatment is complete.

If they’re not in your mouth, they should only be in your case. Don’t wrap them in napkins (they will be thrown away), put them in your pocket (they will bend and/or break), or leave them on the tray or table while you eat (they will be thrown away). You may have extra saliva for a few days and your speech will be slightly different until your brain and tongue get used to this new object in your mouth. To help speed up this adjustment period, you can read a book aloud, sing along to the radio, or just talk to someone else. Always remove your mounts by gently pulling down on the loops on the wire (the top one) and pulling up on the loops on the wire (the bottom one). Never pull the middle of the cable. Always make sure your retainers are fully seated. Don’t let them “fly around”.

Do not leave your retainers in a hot car or put them in hot water (e.g. in a boil or in the dishwasher). They are sensitive to heat, so they warp or melt.

Don’t leave them where babies or pets can reach them. Dogs will even chew through the casing to get them. They smell like you and pets and babies like you!

Wearing aligners or retainers can be a personal journey. You have to learn what works best for you along the way, but you don’t have to fight your way through. Why not cheat yourself to a better start with our life hacks! We asked two retainer wearers to share tips and tricks that have worked for them.

BE ORGANIZED

“It’s very cumbersome. You have to be organized when eating, which isn’t my thing – I found that quite irritating,” Emma stated.

If there’s a catchphrase for new aligner and retainer wearers, it’s “organize.” From eating to cleaning, working to socializing, living with a removable brace requires some adjustment to your daily habits and routines.

LOVE YOUR RETAINER OR ALIGNER CASE

“I was like, wait a minute, where are my followers!?” says Emma.

After removal from the mouth, the next place for your aligner or retainer is in the retainer case provided. You’re unlikely to get a replacement aligner, but you can get multiple retainer cases.

“They give you a mouthguard case, so take it with you. If you take it out and wrap it in tissue paper, you’ll forget it, but if it’s in a box on the table, you won’t forget it,” advises Emma.

BAGS ARE YOUR FRIENDS

“I’m not one to carry a bag, so I found that quite difficult — I had to have someone hold it,” Emma recalled.

Once your aligner or retainer is in its carrying case, you need to think about where to store it when you’re on the go. If you carry a bag, you can store it there. If you’re worried about losing your bag, leaving it in a cloakroom, or just want to travel light, make sure you carry something with bags. Or at least make sure you have a willing friend who does. You may need to plan a little more creatively in summer than in winter.

If you really don’t have a choice and it’s only for a short time, you can choose to leave your aligner or retainer at home. This is not ideal as it could interfere with your treatment plan. Just be prepared because lost or broken aligners and retainers can be a real setback.

“If you lose one of those, you’re out of luck because the next one has more movement and your teeth aren’t ready for it — that could be an expensive mistake,” Bethan warned.

THE HEADSHAKE MANEUVER

“I would go out for lunch and while everyone was getting food you had to find a toilet and sometimes you couldn’t,” recalls Emma.

“I’ve often taken it out to give presentations, but sometimes you forget it and sit in meetings,” Emma recalls.

There will be situations where you will decide to take out your aligner or retainer, e.g. B. in a restaurant. While you want to keep it in for as long as possible, ideally you should do so beforehand. But things don’t always go according to plan. If you forget or something unexpected happens to you, you may not have the opportunity to apologize to find a quiet place or a toilet. But no worry. If you don’t have a choice and have to fight it out in front of others, there’s nothing to be ashamed of. Be confident, take it out and put it right in your pocket.

“You just have to look away to take out your retainer,” advises Emma.

TO SNACK OR NOT TO SNACK? THAT IS THE QUESTION.

“What I’ve found helpful is carrying this mini toothbrush around in my bag all the time and using teeth cleaning tablets,” discovered Bethan.

If you’re a snacker or like your little treats between meals, then aligners and retainers have a downside. After that you always have to brush your teeth. It can be helpful to keep a small toothbrush handy in your bag or pocket so you can brush your teeth quickly. Of course, if you don’t want the hassle, try to limit your eating to certain times. Of course, this can happen as you adjust to your new routines.

“It totally put me off snacking because I didn’t feel like taking them out and brushing them again between meals,” says Bethan.

AVOID SUGAR DRINKS

“Sugary drinks are a bit off-limits because that sugar gets stuck in your retainer and erodes teeth — so avoid sugary stuff,” recalls Emma.

Sugary drinks don’t sit well in an aligner or retainer next to your teeth. Water is the ideal drink, but after you’ve quenched your thirst and kept hydrated, it can have limited appeal. Try to find sugar-free alternatives that you can dilute or substitute in your usual drinks, e.g. B. by replacing tonic with seltzer or even water. They may taste strange at first, but once your taste buds get used to having less sugar, you might even prefer it.

TIMING IT RIGHT

“It’s a bit embarrassing, I’m not going to lie. You don’t want to see people you kind of know while brushing your teeth, such as B. Colleagues – that’s pretty weird. So you give them a little smile, like Yup Yup,” Emma recalls.

You probably need to get used to doing some unusual things in public places, like brushing and cleaning your retainers in a public or office restroom. If you’re embarrassed, you can try making some adjustments. See if you can find a time when the toilets are less busy and remember that it might be a bit unusual or awkward at first, but it’s not that bad.

“Just try to pick the times when it’s been a little quieter, I think — and do it quickly,” says Emma.

TEETH CLEANING TABLETS COULD BE YOUR MUST HAVE

“For me, the struggle has always been getting them fully brushed several times a day before putting them back in, and that’s what I’ve let down,” says Bethan.

If there’s one thing you’ll do a lot more with an aligner or retainer, it’s oral hygiene. Whether it’s bad breath in the morning, trapped food or sugary drinks, cleaning is an important part of caring for your aligners, retainers and mouth.

Thorough brushing and cleaning of your removable appliances is repetitive and takes time and patience – both of which can sometimes be scarce, especially when motivation is waning. Polident Pro Guard & Retainer Cleaning Tablets are a convenient way to leave your retainer or aligner crystal clear. All dental equipment should be removed for cleaning at least once a day or otherwise directed by your dentist. You can find out more about cleaning here and about special cleaning tablets here.

“These effervescent cleaning tabs were a life saver because they saved so much time you could just give them a quick brush and put them back in and they were clean,” recalls Bethan.

PUT A GLASS OF WATER NEAR THE BED

“Quite often I get a dry mouth when it comes to my mouth. It makes you very thirsty and annoying,” Emma recalls.

If you get thirsty while wearing an aligner or retainer, keep a glass of water by the bed. If you find yourself getting dry or chapped lips, just apply some lip balm or petroleum jelly before you go to sleep.

“I always have a water bottle by the bed. Sometimes I forget and it’s like, oh no!” says Emma.

KISS KISS

“I have a long-time boyfriend, so kissing is a little weird,” admits Emma.

Okay, yes, aligners and retainers might seem like a mood killer, but they don’t have to spoil this romantic moment. Depending on how comfortable you are, you may find it easier to be open about the need to take them out. Even if you’re not ready to share that detail, just find a quiet moment to take them out. Either way, most people wouldn’t mind – just remember to put them in the device case!

“I’m very open about that. Cool, nice, normal people don’t care, so that’s fine,” says Bethan.

Braces, Invisalign, and other types of orthodontics move your teeth by reshaping the bone around them. The new bone around the teeth may not have fully bonded after your braces are removed, and you may notice some loosening.

This is not a cause for concern – it is normal. That’s what your retainer is for. The purpose of your retainer is to hold your teeth in place as the bone around them hardens and can hold them in place more firmly. That’s why you should wear your retainer most of the time after you take off your braces for the first time.

If you’re wondering, “Why do my teeth hurt when I wear my retainer?” It’s probably because you haven’t worn it for a while and your teeth have shifted. A fixed retainer can damage teeth if it is too tight. If your teeth feel loose and your retainer is too tight, please visit us for help.

Do your regular check-ups and mention your concerns. We can let you know if anything else is going on and if additional treatment is needed.

Summer is in full swing! It’s time for lazy days by the pool, summer camp and family vacations. But before you storm out on your next summer adventure, the Bel Air Orthodontics team would like to remind you of the importance of keeping your retainer and smile safe this summer.

Here’s a fact: More retainers are lost in the summer than any other time of the year! Why do you ask? There are a number of factors, but it all boils down to your retainer spending too much time outside of your mouth! Summer fun brings a change in your daily schedule, more meals with family and friends, and that usually means more chances of losing, breaking, or forgetting your retainer.

Your retainer is an important part of your orthodontic treatment. So, follow these tips to keep your retainer and smile looking great:

Never Wrap It In A Napkin – While a holder on the table might not be the most appetizing sight, hiding it in a napkin is a quick and surefire way to accidentally send your holder in the bin!

– While an advance on the table might not be the most appetizing sight to behold, hiding it in a napkin is a quick and safe way to accidentally toss your advance in the bin! Keep it away from Fido – It’s a fact that dogs love the smell and taste of saliva on retainers and they will go to impressive lengths to get their canines on them. Never leave your retainers on a bedside table, counter, or table where they can jump up and catch on the device. Remember that dogs love to chew on things. . . this includes retainers!

– It is a fact that dogs love the smell and taste of saliva on retainers and they will go to impressive lengths to get their canines on them. Never leave your retainers on a bedside table, counter, or table where they can jump up and catch on the device. Remember that dogs love to chew on things. . . this includes retainers! Don’t Be Random – While spontaneity is a good thing in life, it’s a bad thing when it comes to storing your retainer. If you place your retainer in random places you will eventually forget where it is. Instead, create designated spots to store your retainer. Whether it’s the same spot in your purse or backpack, a special drawer in your bedroom, or a cupboard in the kitchen, you’ll always know where it is.

– While spontaneity is a good thing in life, it’s a bad thing when it comes to storing your retainer. If you place your retainer in random places you will eventually forget where it is. Instead, create designated spots to store your retainer. Whether it’s the same spot in your purse or backpack, a special drawer in your bedroom, or a cupboard in the kitchen, you’ll always know where it is. Take them out when swimming – More than one retainer has been lost in ocean surf, at the bottom of a lake, or at a public pool. Don’t let your neighbor be yours!

– More than one follower has been lost in the ocean surf, at the bottom of a lake, or in a public pool. Don’t let your neighbor be yours! Don’t put it in your pocket – your retainer is more fragile than you think. Putting it in your pocket often leads to loss or breakage. Just imagine the look on your mom’s face when she discovers she’s tossed that pair of jeans or jacket in the washer and dryer, unaware that the holder is tucked away in the bag. Let’s just say this story doesn’t end well.

– Your retainer is more fragile than you think. Putting it in your pocket often leads to loss or breakage. Just imagine the look on your mom’s face when she discovers she’s tossed that pair of jeans or jacket in the washer and dryer, unaware that the holder is tucked away in the bag. Let’s just say this story doesn’t end well. DON’T THROW IT IN YOUR GYM/GYM BAG – Let’s face it, your smelly gym bag is no place for your retainer! Imagine the contents of this gym bag. . . dirty sneakers, empty food packaging and a host of other unwanted things. Once your retainer is there, chances are you’ll damage it, forget it, or misplace it.

– Let’s face it, your smelly gym bag is no place for your retainer! Imagine the contents of this gym bag. . . dirty sneakers, empty food packaging and a host of other unwanted things. Once your retainer is there, chances are you’ll damage it, forget it, or misplace it. Clean with Lukewarm – NOT HOT WATER – While it is important to keep your retainer clean and bright, never use hot water to clean it or boil it to sterilize. Heat will distort and damage your retainers. Instead, soak your retainers in a denture cleaning product like Efferdent once a week to keep them clean.

– While it is important to keep your retainer clean and shiny, never use hot water to clean or boil to sterilize. Heat will distort and damage your retainers. Instead, soak your retainers in a denture cleaning product like Efferdent once a week to keep them clean. Don’t leave it in a hot car – Temperatures in a closed car can reach temperatures in excess of 130 degrees in the summer. Retainers melt at these temperatures, so remember to take them with you.

– Temperatures in a closed car can reach temperatures of over 130 degrees in summer. Retainers melt at these temperatures, so remember to take them with you. Label Your Retainer Case – Once you misplace your retainer, your chances of someone sending it back are much better if your name, phone number and/or email address is on the case.

– If you misplace your advance your chances of someone sending it back are much better if your name, phone number and/or email address is on the case. Don’t forget to wear it – If you wear your retainer when you should, you’re much less likely to lose it. Make wearing your retainer your new healthy habit!

– If you wear your retainer like you should, you are much less likely to lose it. Make wearing your retainer your new healthy habit! Always keep your retainer in its case when not in your mouth – that’s Dr. Godwin’s most important rule! Your case is designed to keep your retainer safe when it is not in your mouth. So remember to use it.

If you have a retainer mishap over the summer, contact us as soon as possible so we can schedule a replacement device to be fabricated. Remember that tooth movement occurs every day that your retainer is not worn. So don’t hesitate, give us a call today if you have any questions about wearing and caring for your retainer. We wish you a safe, fun-filled summer!

Whether you wear orthodontic retainers during treatment or after your braces or Invisalign are completed at Alizadeh and Schreiner Orthodontics, over time… your retainers or aligners can become discolored and look rough. You brush and floss daily, so adding cleaning your retainers to your daily routine is just another step in maintaining good oral hygiene habits.

Five tips to keep your orthodontic retainers or Invisalign aligners clean and secure

Specialty Retainer Toothbrush – As you remove stuck food and plaque from your retainer, you don’t want to share those bacteria on your teeth, gums, or tongue with the same toothbrush. SIMPLE SOLUTION – Keep one of your old toothbrushes as a dedicated retainer toothbrush. Toothpaste is good for teeth, bad for retainers – Most toothpaste products are slightly abrasive and can scratch the soft and sensitive areas of a retainer. The best cleaners for a retainer are liquid soap, hand soap, or baking soda. Make sure you rinse them well to remove the soapy taste before putting them back in your mouth. Never boil or bleach to disinfect them – boiling water is great for killing germs but will permanently warp a retainer. You should avoid hot water, as even slight flexing will prevent the retainer from seating properly and will move teeth if not properly seated. Bleach can also warp and change the color of the plastic, and it is difficult to remove the smell and taste from the device. Protect your retainer with a towel – It’s easy to drop a retainer on the floor or in a sink. Putting a towel under your holder will make it harder to slide it off the counter. splinter and break. Retainers are expensive to replace. Dropping a towel is extra protection to avoid replacement costs. Protect your retainers – A retainer can pick up a lot of germs when left outdoors. You also run the risk of a pet chewing it up or accidentally throwing it in the trash. Keep your retainers safe in your retainer case when not in your mouth during school lunch or sporting events.

How to Clean Your Orthodontic Retainers | aligners at home

Brushing alone is not enough to keep your retainers in place | Aligners look like new. Every now and then they could use a little refreshment.

Recipe for removing yellow stains from orthodontic retainers:

Hydrogen Peroxide – Blows away stains. Baking Soda – Mild abrasive to remove dried-on plague and food. Warm water, a small bowl and a toothbrush

Directions: In a warm bowl of water, use half water, half hydrogen peroxide, 2 tablespoons baking soda, and a toothbrush. Depending on the severity, it takes many minutes to hours to whiten and cleanse. Soak them overnight or all day if they’re particularly dirty.

Recipe for removing crusted layers that won’t brush off:

Distilled white vinegar (5% acidity) Small bowl of warm water Toothbrush

Soak Your Retainers | Soak aligners in a 50/50 solution of warm water and vinegar before brushing, up to 30 minutes to be safe. It may take a few times for the saliva minerals that have accumulated in the plastic to become clean again. To remove the vinegar taste, rinse well and soak in mouthwash for a few minutes.

Hydrogen peroxide is best at removing yellow stains, and vinegar is best at removing crusty deposits. Try both recipes separately if they look really gnarly.

After spending time and money straightening your teeth, don’t skimp on the last step! Wearing your retainer according to your orthodontist’s instructions will ensure that you keep that beautiful smile for the rest of your life. Spending a little more time will make your retainers last longer, with a little extra effort to keep them clean and secure.

Please contact Alizadeh and Schreiner Orthodontics at our Chesterfield, MO office with any questions or to schedule a free initial exam.

After completing the active phase of your orthodontic treatment, we remove the braces from your teeth and begin the so-called retention phase of the treatment. This is one of the most important parts of your treatment as this phase is designed to protect your new smile by holding your teeth in their new position. While your teeth are in the correct position after wearing braces, the bones, ligaments and tissues that support your teeth have not yet adjusted to their new position and are still in the process of “settling down”. This means that without retainers, your teeth will shift back to their old position, which would undo all your hard work!

Why retainers don’t fit properly

When a patient tells us that their retainer is no longer properly seated, only two things can have happened. The most common reason a retainer no longer fits is that the patient has done something to distort the shape of the retainer. This can happen when a plastic holder is cleaned in water that is too hot. Plastic holders can easily lose their original shape when washed or soaked in water that is too warm. For this reason it is very important never to use hot water when cleaning a plastic holder.

Plastic holders can also change shape if mishandled. For example, using the front wire as a handle to insert and remove the holder can cause the holder to bend, causing it to not fit properly. A retainer can also change shape when slept on or accidentally stepped on.

The second most common cause of ill-fitting retainers is not wearing them as directed. When your braces come off, your orthodontist will give you a retainer along with very specific instructions on how and when to wear your retainer. If you don’t wear your retainer as directed, your teeth will gradually shift out of their new position, resulting in your retainer either fitting very tightly or not fitting at all. If this happens to you and you’re still able to place your retainer over your teeth, try wearing it all day for several days to see if your teeth move back to where they were before. However, if your teeth do not align properly after a few days, you should contact us immediately for an appointment.

How we deal with retainers that don’t fit properly

When a patient returns to our practice with a retainer that does not fit, we first check the condition of the retainer. If it looks good, our orthodontist will see how much the teeth have moved since the braces were removed. If the front teeth still look good and only the back teeth have moved, the retainer can be adjusted to the position of the back teeth. But if the teeth have moved so far that adjusting the retainer doesn’t work, the patient may be the only option to replace the retainer or put the braces back on. This is why it is so important that you always wear your retainer as prescribed!

If you notice any problems with your retainer, please contact us immediately for an appointment so we can check the problem and fix it as soon as possible!

If your retainer is covered with calcium deposits, it may be time for a replacement retainer. Visit SportingSmiles today to learn how to get a quality Essix retainer at a fraction of the cost.

With clear retainers or aligners, a bacteria-filled biofilm in your mouth covers the surface of the retainer. If left uncleaned, this film can cause a yellowish appearance. The longer it is left on your retainer, the more likely it is to harden and the stains to become permanent.

Invisalign is a state-of-the-art alternative to braces. Invisalign are clear, custom-made aligners for everyone, from teens to adults, who want straighter teeth in general, or who want to correct overbites, underbites, gaps, crossbites, or open bites. Using the latest technology, Invisalign has revolutionized the way we smile.

You’ll still be able to do everything you love, like play sports and go out with friends. In fact, that’s the great thing about Invisalign compared to braces: no one will suspect you’re wearing them because they’re clear and more comfortable for the person wearing them, and harder for another person to identify.

Although the technology that goes into making Invisaligns is advanced, they still require careful maintenance, and that includes paying attention to what you eat and drink.

Beverages that are safe with Invisalign

Dentists recommend drinking only water while wearing Invisalign. For other drinks, the Invisalign aligners should be removed for drinking.

Drinks to avoid with Invisalign

everything else incl.

Hot water

tea

Coffee

wine and beer

Any other alcoholic beverage

sparkling water

Juice

Sparkling mineral water (e.g. La Croix)

Other carbonated drinks

milk

Drink only water for the very best results

As mentioned above, the only safe beverage you can drink while wearing Invisalign aligners is water. Drinking water alone will not only help protect your aligners and teeth, but in this way will help you achieve the best results within the expected time frame.

Therefore, Invisalign requires your commitment to (1) wear them no less than 22 hours a day and (2) protect your teeth and the aligners because they cost you quite a bit of money and you want the best your money can offer. What does that mean for your everyday life? It means drinking only water for best results.

Consider your morning coffee. If you want to protect your teeth and the aligners, you need to take the aligners out – the hot liquid can warp the aligners, while the caffeine can stain both them and your teeth. But when you take off the aligners, you will have to spend about 30 minutes, if not more, without your aligners. That time adds up quickly. And if you don’t wear the aligners for more than 2 hours, you risk not getting the best results your aligners can offer.

Why you should only drink water

Knowing that you should only drink room-warm or cool water during Invisalign treatment is not enough; you should know why The reasons are threefold:

Anything other than water can contaminate the aligners. Any hot liquid can warp the aligners. If you drink anything other than water with the aligners on, you risk fluid seeping between the aligners and your teeth and developing conditions for tooth decay.

Anything other than room temperature water can therefore damage the aligners or your teeth. Aligner attachments, small dots on the teeth made of dental composite material that some patients may need in more complex orthodontic cases to aid in the correction and handling of the aligners should not be affected by other liquids given the relatively short treatment time.

So remember you are paying for your beautiful smile, make sure you make the most of it. Invisalign is temporary, but your smile will be permanent.

Negative effects on Invisalign aligners

Most people choose Invisalign based on the looks or lack thereof. Invisalign are virtually invisible, smooth aligners. Drinking anything other than water can negate this main selling point.

Dark drinks such as coffee, tea and wine will discolor the aligners. Hot drinks like tea can warp the plastic. Stains directly affect the appearance of the aligners, while warped plastic affects the effectiveness of the aligners, sometimes requiring you to buy a new set of aligners.

Negative effects on teeth

While many people choose Invisalign for its invisibility, they don’t choose Invisalign for its convenience. If you drink anything other than room temperature water and don’t remove the aligners every time you take a sip of that beverage, you are risking your oral health.

If you drink any liquid with the aligners on, that liquid can seep down between the aligners and your teeth. Acidic drinks — like tea, coffee, and alcohol — and sugary drinks — like juice and soda — are especially dangerous. The tiny space between your teeth and the aligners serves as a breeding ground for bacteria, which is compounded by sugar and acid:

Sugar is a food source for these bacteria, allowing bacteria to nourish cavities.

Acid can strip minerals from teeth and cause weak and decayed teeth.

Saliva would normally help prevent sugar and acids from destroying your teeth, but with Invisalign, the aligners create a barrier between the saliva and the teeth. This contributes to the negative effects that beverages other than water can have on your teeth while being treated with Invisalign.

Therefore, even if you take your aligners out to eat and drink, it’s important to brush and floss afterwards to prevent acidic or sugary food residue from building up between the aligners and your teeth.

Despite some anecdotes claiming that Invisalign can cause tooth decay, the culprit is actually improper care when using Invisalign, not the aligners themselves. Learn more about Invisalign and cavities.

Can you drink through a straw with Invisalign?

Dentists do not recommend drinking through a straw while wearing Invisalign aligners. While a straw can reduce staining or puckering, it doesn’t eliminate the negative effects that beverages other than water can have on the aligners.

It is hard for some people to imagine that they will not drink anything but water during Invisalign treatment. Because of this, many people are putting their hopes at straws. If you’ve ever whitened your teeth, you’ve probably been told to drink through a straw. Some people believe that this will also be the case during Invisalign treatment.

But hot drinks stay hot and are usually not suitable for straws. Even if the drink cools down a bit, the temperature can be warm enough to drink through a straw, but hot enough to still have a warping effect on the aligners.

A straw can be used with cool but dark and/or acidic and/or sugary drinks to reduce the risks of these drinks and the damage that could be done to the aligners and your teeth.

That means you still run the risk of taking damage. Your mouth is a wet environment and full of saliva. If the drink mixes with the saliva, it will inevitably come into contact with the aligners. Your aligners may still be stained or warped, and your teeth may still decay. Straws minimize the risks but do not prevent them.

What if you accidentally drink something other than water?

If for some reason you forget your aligners and accidentally drink something other than water, don’t worry. The solution is simple enough:

Remove the aligners.

Rinse your mouth and the aligners.

If you have toothpaste and a toothbrush with you, brush your teeth.

Then put your aligners back on immediately.

Remember: For Invisalign to work optimally, you should wear it at least 22 hours a day. Those two remaining hours add up quickly, so if you need to remove them to clean, do so quickly. Don’t get distracted and skip Invisalign or you may be prolonging the duration of treatment, which means you are prolonging the duration by only drinking room-warm or cool water.

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A Hawley retainer is a form of orthodontic retainer that uses a combination of a hard plastic or acrylic sheet connected by a thin metal wire. The retainer is fitted to your mouth so that it fits comfortably against the roof of your mouth with the wire resting against the front of your upper teeth.

The retainer protects the result of your orthodontic treatment and prevents your teeth from slipping back into their previous position. The Hawley retainer must be worn every night for life in order to keep your smile healthy for as long as possible. It can be used after treatment with braces or clear aligners like Invisalign.

Hawley retainers are the original retention device, but new designs have emerged in recent decades, including removable clear plastic retainers such as Essix and Vivera retainers. While clear retainers are becoming more popular, the Hawley retainer remains one of the most commonly used and effective retention devices, used by orthodontists and preferred by patients.

According to a recent study by the National Institutes of Health, Hawley retainers were preferred by 90% of orthodontists for use with a maxillary arch.

A Hawley retainer is easy to use, comfortable to wear, and extremely effective in protecting the results of your smile as long as it is used as directed.

Pros and cons of a Hawley retainer

There are several advantages of a Hawley retainer:

Easy to adjust to the patient’s mouth

Adjustable over time if needed

The plate color can be individually selected for a personalized appearance

Sturdy materials are durable and difficult to damage

Easy to clean

Removable for easy cleaning and maintenance

NO FOOD RESTRICTIONS: Remove the holder for all meals and drinks

Some cons to consider with Hawley retainers:

More noticeable than other mounts (wire sits in front)

Plastic panels can be uncomfortable

May cause difficulty speaking

A bulkier device may irritate your lips, gums, or tongue

If not cleaned properly, bacteria can grow

If they are not worn properly and regularly, teeth can shift

Requires dedicated compliance

Detachable appliances can be broken, lost or damaged

For these reasons, some patients may prefer a different form of retainer.

A Hawley retainer generally costs between $350 and $600. The cost will vary depending on your orthodontist, the region you are being treated in and the specifics of your case. The price includes the cost of sending molds to a manufacturing facility and designing the retainer for your mouth and sending it back to the office. In general, Hawley retainers cost more than clear plastic Essix retainers, but a single Hawley retainer is designed to last many years, longer than plastic Essix retainers.

The cost of your Hawley retainer may be included in the total price of your orthodontic treatment. In addition, patients whose insurance covers their braces treatment can also cover the retainer.

A replacement Hawley retainer will likely cost the same price as the original retainer, around $350-$600. You may also have to pay extra for the office visit to fit the new retainer.

What color is a Hawley retainer?

Hawley holders come in a variety of colors and can even be printed with fun designs like watermelon, tie-dye, or stars and stripes. The colored part of the retainer is the hard plastic or acrylic sheet that sits on the roof of the mouth and is connected to metal wires that hold the retainer firmly in place. The acrylic or plastic material can be cast in almost any color, giving you many customizable options to make your retainer your own.

Because the retainer sits high on the palate, it’s completely hidden behind the teeth: this means you can choose a bright and fun color for your retainer without worrying about anyone seeing it.

To avoid discoloration, avoid a very light color like white or gray: light gem tones like red and blue stay in good condition for a very long time. If your mount breaks, the plate will need to be recast, and you have the option of choosing a new color or design.

Choose your favorite color or season to inspire your color choices; Your orthodontist’s office may also offer a range of designs to choose from, such as: B. flowers, cats or sports equipment. Ask your orthodontist about your Hawley retainer color and design options.

How do I clean my Hawley retainer?

In order for the Hawley retainer to work effectively, it is very important to keep it clean and store it properly when not in use.

Wear your Hawley retainer every night and give it a thorough cleaning before storing it in its case during the day. To clean, remove from mouth and gently brush the entire surface with a toothbrush and warm water. Do not use toothpaste: it can damage the plastic in the retainer.

You can also soak the retainer in baking soda and water for several hours for an occasional more thorough cleaning. Don’t do this every night – it can damage the metal wire over time – but soaking the mount overnight once or twice a month will ensure a thorough overall cleaning of the device. You can also soak the storage box to prevent bacterial growth. Be sure to rinse your retainer with water before putting it back in your mouth or storage case; Do the same for the storage box.

Can a Hawley retainer move teeth?

A Hawley retainer is not designed to move teeth. Rather, it is worn to protect the progress made by your orthodontic treatment, with either braces or clear aligners. Without retainers, your teeth will naturally begin to shift back into their original position. Wearing a retainer regularly will stop this shift and keep your healthy bite and beautiful smile in place. While some minor shifts are normal as your teeth settle, regular use of retainers will prevent your teeth from shifting out of alignment and requiring future treatment.

If you neglect to wear your retainer and your teeth have shifted, wearing the retainer will not put your teeth back in their correct position. You may need another round of orthodontic treatment to correct the displacement that has occurred. To avoid the expense, hassle, and time of a second orthodontic treatment, prevent tooth loss by wearing your Hawley retainer every night.

Hawley retainers vs Clear retainers

Which retainer is right for you depends on your preferences or needs. Both Hawley retainers and clear retainers are effective ways to protect the effects of your orthodontic treatment: in fact, a recent NIH study found that, on average, they offer the same effectiveness in retaining the benefits of orthodontic treatment.

Material Like Long Life Cost Effectiveness Pros Cons Hawley Retainers Metal and Acrylic or Hard Plastic 5-10 years or more $350-600 for a kit Highly Effective High Sturdy materials and durable design: built to last Easier to adjust and repair Many color options for personalized design Removable design No food restrictions as the appliance is removed when eating Easy to clean and soak Durable design is cost effective over the long term Wires or plastic may irritate gums, lips or tongue More visible: metal wires run across front of teeth Larger appliances may cause speech impediments Clear removable retainers More transparent , flexible plastic 1-5 years $150-300 for a set Highly effective Low Clear retainers are subtle and almost invisible No problems with food left in retainer Easy to clean Easy to copy and make perform multiple sets at once Secure, full, true-to-life fit provides effectiveness in maintaining orthodontic outcomes More difficult to repair if damaged – more likely to need replacing May need to be replaced every year or as teeth shift Can cause extra saliva production Bacteria can grow on retainers , if not cleaned

How long should you wear a Hawley retainer?

Retainers are “nighttime for life”: You’ll wear them more regularly the first year, but eventually your orthodontist will direct you to wear your retainer every night or every few nights for as long as possible — ideally forever. This keeps your teeth in their correct position and prevents them from shifting back into their old, incorrect alignment.

For the first year after completing your orthodontic treatment, you will wear your Hawley retainer 24/7, day and night, and remove it to eat, brush your teeth, and clean the retainer. This is an important phase of the retention phase where your teeth are adjusting to the removal of your braces but still need support to keep from shifting.

After about a year, you can only wear the retainers at night for about another year. Once this process is complete, you can wear your retainers every other night forever.

Do Hawley mounts break easily?

Hawley retainers are durable and designed to be stable in your mouth. However, accidents do happen and retainers often break – so it’s important to take proper care of your retainer and store it in a case when you take it out, lest it get lost or broken – or get eaten by the dog, which is a very unfortunate common problem with Hawley retainers!

How long does a Hawley retainer last?

Hawley mounts are rugged and built to last for years: They are built to last for years. It is important to take proper care of your retainer to prevent it from breaking, getting lost or getting dirty. But even a well-cared-for retainer needs to be replaced: After a few years, you should visit the orthodontist to get a new Hawley retainer.

How comfortable are Hawley retainers?

Most people find Hawley retainers comfortable and easy to wear, especially since after the first year they are only worn at night when they should be worn all day. However, the appliance is a bit bulkier than clear plastic mounts, which some patients find uncomfortable: the plastic plate can irritate the palate, or the connecting wire can sting the lips or gums. Certain patients may find Essix clear retainers or a permanently bonded retainer more comfortable.

Can a Hawley retainer correct an overbite?

No, retainers are not intended to correct orthodontic problems, including overbites. Rather, they are used after treatment with braces or clear aligners to hold the treatment in place and prevent the teeth from shifting backwards.

If you have a dental problem such as an overbite, orthodontically supervised treatment is required to correct it, followed by a retainer.

Can I eat with a Hawley retainer?

Remove the Hawley retainer and store properly before eating. Food can become trapped in the holder, which can lead to plaque formation or damage to the device. Store your retainer in the case provided, not a napkin, and rinse your mouth and retainer before putting it back in. When the retainer is out of your mouth you can eat and drink whatever you like: There are no food restrictions with a Hawley retainer.

Can I drink with a Hawley retainer?

You can drink water with a Hawley retainer attached, but if you drink anything else you should remove the retainer. Store it properly to avoid breaking or losing it, and rinse your mouth and the mount before putting it back in.

Polypropylene mug

Plastics are known to be the biggest problem when it comes to hot drinks. First, regular plastic cups have a very low melting point, which means that plastic cups will partially deform or melt slightly when in contact with hot liquids. It’s also important to remember that melted plastic can cause great harm to the user, especially if it’s not BPA-free. BPA is one of the biggest contributors to plastic and disease cases. BPA reacts to a person’s hormones and bodily functions, which can lead to cancer-like complications. Therefore, BPA-free is an important aspect when using plastics. If this is the case, then what makes polypropylene different from others?

First of all, polypropylene is not your average plastic. It is a blend of different plastics and fibers to achieve a stronger and more heat resistant material. This means that polypropylene does not break as easily or melt as quickly as regular plastics. Polypropylene has a minimum heat resistance of 82.2°C (180°F) and a melt temperature of 163.8°C (327°F). It is also important to note that polypropylene does not use BPA as a curing chemical as it uses a blend of fibers and plastic material to create its curing method that is also safe to use.

Polypropylene cups are great cups for hot drinks as they don’t melt at high temperatures and are more durable. You also have a great way to ensure that heat is not radiated onto the surface due to the insulation caused by the fiber and plastic combination material. Polypropylene cups are also great for long term use as they do not absorb water and do not mix with water. This also means polypropylene does not absorb soap, which is important for reuse purposes.

ePackageSupply’s Versalite Polypropylene Hot Beverage Cups are perfect for fully understanding the technical marvel of Polypropylene. Versalite Polypropylene Hot Beverage Cups are perfect for indoor and outdoor setups due to their excellent heat management ability. The thermal management feature keeps warm beverages hot while the cup remains safe to touch.

Click here to learn more about Versalite polypropylene hot beverage cups

paper cup

When it comes to hot drinks outside the home, paper cups are the usual cups that people think of. They’re the usual coffee cup that offices, homes, and even commercial centers get for their pantry. But why is it like that? Why are paper cups the most popular cups people associate with when it comes to hot beverages? Here are 4 simple reasons

1. Eco-friendly

One of the biggest problems the world is currently experiencing is global warming. It’s not easy to discuss this topic as it’s a balancing act between human needs and the sustainability of the earth, but items like paper cups are one of those items that try to achieve both. Paper cups are biodegradable and recyclable, meaning paper cups can be reused or decompose in a short time.

2. Easy to use or convenient

Paper cups are among the most practical disposable cups of all. They are light, soft and easy to pack. They don’t take up much space as they are stacked vertically and they don’t need to be cleaned as they are designed to be disposable.

3. Non-toxic

Like BPA-free plastic, paper cups are risk-free as they leave no toxic residue when in contact with water. However, paper cups are less sturdy than plastic cups because paper tends to absorb water, which weakens its structure, leading to tearing and breakage.

4. Diversity

Some paper cups are made from paper-like materials, but are not paper in the literal sense. Some paper cups are made out of cardboard to make them a bit more durable, while there are paper cups made out of post-consumer fibers like recycled paper and wood chips to make them less porous.

Ceramic cups/mugs

Ceramic mugs are best known for their hard exterior and high heat capacity. They have a heat limit of 3,632℉ and 2,000℃ respectively, which means some ceramic mugs can also be used for cooking or baking. One of the advantages of ceramic mugs is that heat distribution can change the thickness of the outer layer of the ceramic. This means that if a ceramic has a very thick layer, the heat cannot radiate, avoiding accidental burns on contact.

Ceramic mugs are easy to clean and non-absorbent. Soapy water or drink residue can be easily rinsed out. However, ceramic is the most uncomfortable and probably the heaviest mug for hot drinks. Being made of ceramic, they are very fragile and can break on impact.

Styrofoam mug

Styrofoam cups work well for outdoor hot beverages because they are portable, affordable, and have a high heat limit. Styrofoam cups are probably in between paper cups and polypropylene cups, they have a higher heat limit than paper cups but not as high as polypropylene cups. They’re not a cheaper alternative to paper cups, but they’re not as special as polypropylene cups.

Styrofoam cups are made of styrene, the chemical responsible for the firm foam structure. They’re essentially plastics with extra steps, but they’re a little more special. Styrene does not use BPA because it absorbs less water than paper cups due to its hardening method, meaning Styrofoam cups can hold liquids for longer.

Keep the hot drinks hot

Hot drink mugs can come in a variety of materials, sizes, and even heat ratings, but it all boils down to (hot drink pun) being able to sip that awesome coffee or tea. There are other cups for hot drinks, but the ones listed above are the easiest to find and the best to use when it comes to drinking hot drinks.

Read the Plastics 101 editorial to learn more about plastics and to learn more about ePackageSupply’s hot beverage cups visit this page.