When you first get braces, it can be an uncomfortable adjustment as your mouth gets used to the new hardware. The metal brackets and wires can rub against the inside of your cheeks, lips, and tongue, causing irritation and even sores. To help alleviate this discomfort, orthodontists often recommend using dental wax. In this article, we will explore the benefits of using wax with braces and how it can make your orthodontic experience more comfortable.
Dental wax is a soft, pliable substance that can be applied to the brackets and wires of braces. It creates a smooth barrier between the metal and the soft tissues of your mouth, reducing friction and irritation. Wax is typically made of medical-grade paraffin or silicone, making it safe to use in your mouth.
One of the primary benefits of using wax with braces is that it helps to prevent sores and ulcers from forming. When the brackets and wires rub against the inside of your mouth, they can create painful sores that make it difficult to eat and speak. By applying wax to the areas that are causing the most irritation, you can create a protective barrier that allows the sores to heal.
Additionally, wax can help to reduce the discomfort of sharp wires poking into your cheeks and lips. Sometimes, as your teeth shift and the wires are adjusted, they can become longer or poke out at odd angles. This can lead to painful cuts and scratches in your mouth. By applying wax to the sharp areas, you can smooth out the edges and make wearing your braces more bearable.
Another benefit of using wax with braces is that it can make eating and speaking more comfortable. When you have sores or cuts in your mouth, chewing and talking can be painful. The wax creates a barrier that allows you to move your mouth without the metal rubbing against your soft tissues. This can make mealtimes much more enjoyable and allow you to speak clearly without discomfort.
Some people may worry that using wax with braces will make them less effective. However, this is not the case. The wax is designed to be pliable and moldable, so it can conform to the shape of your brackets and wires without impeding their function. You can still eat and talk normally with wax applied to your braces, and it will not interfere with the movement of your teeth.
Applying wax to your braces is easy and can be done whenever you feel discomfort or irritation. Simply pinch off a small piece of wax and roll it into a ball. Press the ball onto the bracket or wire that is causing you pain, smoothing it out with your fingers. The wax will adhere to the metal and create a protective barrier between your braces and your mouth.
In addition to traditional wax, there are also pre-made wax strips and applicators available for even easier use. These products are convenient for on-the-go use and can be discreetly applied whenever you need relief from discomfort. Keep a few strips or applicators in your backpack or purse so that you always have them on hand.
Overall, using wax with braces is a simple yet effective way to make your orthodontic experience more comfortable. By creating a protective barrier between the metal brackets and wires of your braces and the soft tissues of your mouth, wax can help to prevent sores, reduce discomfort, and make eating and speaking easier. Talk to your orthodontist about using wax with braces and see how it can improve your daily life during treatment.