Don’t rush to bin those bendy plastic straws yet

SIR – The prevailing stance on plastic straws (Letters, February 24) may give everyone self-satisfied feelings.

However, having recently had minor maxillary facial surgery, I found that straws were essential, and bendy straws were the first item I asked my husband to buy. In order to be able to drink and function at home, let alone in a public eatery, without dribbling, drooling or otherwise drawing attention to oneself post-surgery, straws are a necessity.

Major maxillary facial surgery is truly distressing and disfiguring. Patients suffering from diseases that require such skilled operations need a champion.

Caroline R M Davies

Culgaith, Cumbria

SIR – When I was in practice in the Nineties, I was presented with a young lady who complained of painful, dimpled incisors.

On further examination and questioning, it transpired that she had just returned from the south of France, where it was her habit to suck her fizzy drinks through a straw, thus washing the outer aspect of her upper teeth in the drink. As the fluid was acidic, it caused the enamel to erode, making the tooth surface dimpled, thinner and therefore sensitive.

Thus straws must be used, if necessary, with caution. Raith Smith

Basingstoke, Hampshire

SIR – A few years ago, in anticipation of a visit from a young relative, I bought a box of plastic straws. She used three, and now when I open my cupboard the remaining 147 glare at me reproachfully.

What am I to do with them? Janette Phillips

Sutton Coldfield

SIR – In light of the proposed ban on plastic drinking straws, I suggest that we all convert to cheese straws instead.

Drink up, then eat the straw. Richard Phillips

Newbury, Berkshire