Throughout your journey to a straighter smile, you may run into some discomfort. As you get used to braces, the mouth’s soft tissue can become irritated through friction and wires poking the back of your mouth between adjustment appointments.
Orthodontic wax is the answer to soreness – it covers the rough edges that are causing pain, creates a smooth surface for more comfort, and offers temporary relief.
What is Orthodontic Wax?
Non-toxic and natural, orthodontic wax is a safe and straightforward way to ease irritation and let your soft tissue heal. The tasteless paraffin mixed with beeswax or carnauba wax is pliable and easy to apply and can be a barrier against pointy or sharp braces.
It’s affordable and safe to swallow and is the best tool until your next orthodontist appointment. Once you have your adjustment, orthodontists trim and correct the sharp spots for a long-term solution.
How to Use Orthodontic Wax
It’s effortless to use orthodontic wax, but there are some best practices to keep while using it.
To apply the wax:
- Be sure to brush your teeth – having a clean surface helps wax stay better!
- Break off a small piece of wax to start. It comes in one block with perforated sections to break it off easily. Start with a small amount because you can also build on more wax.
- Roll the wax in your fingers first to soften it. Then apply while it’s in a flat ball and mould it around the irritating part of your braces.
- To remove the wax, you can use your hands or a toothbrush and brush it off.
Best Practices for Using Orthodontic Wax
There are some guidelines on using orthodontic wax properly.
- Don’t reuse wax and replace the wax at least every day – since you’re practicing good brushing habits with your braces, this should be easy!
- It’s safe to wear overnight, and the ingredients are safe if you accidentally swallow it.
- Eating soft food and room temperature liquids will help your wax last longer.
If Your Braces Pain is Persistent, See Your Orthodontist
Wax is a life-saving tool that makes braces so much more comfortable, but if you have concerning pain, your orthodontist can trim the wire and examine your brackets to ensure everything is as it should be.
The last thing you should do is mess around with do-it-yourself methods that can damage your braces. If you have any concerns, your orthodontist is happy to help.
Bottom Line
As a temporary solution, orthodontic wax is the best thing you can carry with you in your oral hygiene kit. But seeing your orthodontist should be the priority if your pain is causing severe issues.
At Level Orthodontics, we do everything we can to make your braces comfortable. If you have concerns about the pain associated with braces, book a complimentary consultation with our expert orthodontists to explore your options.