If you wear braces, you may have experienced discomfort or irritation from the brackets and wires rubbing against the inside of your cheeks or lips Luckily, orthodontic wax can provide relief by creating a smooth barrier between your braces and the soft tissues of your mouth In this article, we will discuss the ins and outs of using orthodontic wax to alleviate discomfort and keep you feeling comfortable throughout your orthodontic treatment.
What is orthodontic wax?
Orthodontic wax is a soft, moldable material that is used to cover the sharp edges of braces and create a smooth surface between the brackets and wires and the inside of your cheeks and lips It is typically made of medical-grade paraffin or beeswax and is completely safe to use in your mouth Orthodontic wax is available at most drugstores and orthodontic offices, making it easy to find and use whenever you need it.
How to apply orthodontic wax
Applying orthodontic wax is a simple and straightforward process Follow these steps to effectively use orthodontic wax:
1 Wash your hands: Before applying orthodontic wax, make sure to wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water This will help prevent any bacteria or germs from getting into your mouth while applying the wax.
2 Dry off the area: Use a tissue or paper towel to dry off the area where you will be applying the orthodontic wax This will help the wax adhere better and stay in place longer.
3 Take a small piece of wax: Tear off a small piece of orthodontic wax (about the size of a pea) from the container Roll it into a ball or flatten it between your fingers to create a small disc.
4 Apply the wax to the problem area: Gently press the ball or disc of wax onto the bracket or wire that is causing irritation orthodontic wax how to use. Make sure to cover the sharp edge completely to create a smooth surface.
5 Smooth out the wax: Use your fingers to smooth out the edges of the wax and make sure it adheres firmly to the bracket or wire This will help the wax stay in place and provide the most relief.
6 Replace as needed: Orthodontic wax will wear down over time as you eat and talk If the wax becomes loose or falls off, simply remove it and repeat the above steps to apply a new piece of wax.
Tips for using orthodontic wax
Here are some additional tips to keep in mind when using orthodontic wax:
– Change wax regularly: It is important to change the orthodontic wax regularly to maintain its effectiveness Replace the wax every time you brush your teeth or eat a meal to ensure maximum comfort.
– Avoid chewing gum: Chewing gum can cause the orthodontic wax to become dislodged from the brackets and wires Avoid chewing gum while wearing braces or orthodontic wax to prevent any discomfort.
– Keep wax clean: Make sure to keep the container of orthodontic wax clean and closed when not in use This will prevent any dirt or debris from getting on the wax and into your mouth.
– Use wax for new irritations: If you experience a new irritation from your braces, don’t hesitate to use orthodontic wax to alleviate the discomfort Applying wax early can prevent further irritation and keep you feeling comfortable.
In conclusion, orthodontic wax is a valuable tool for anyone wearing braces to alleviate discomfort and irritation caused by brackets and wires By following the steps outlined above and using these tips, you can effectively use orthodontic wax to keep your mouth feeling comfortable throughout your orthodontic treatment Don’t hesitate to reach for the orthodontic wax whenever you need relief from braces-related discomfort.